Ballan wrasse by Linda Pitkin
Ballan wrasse
Scientific name: Labrus bergylta
The largest of the UK wrasse species, the ballan wrasse with its striking patterning is a delight for any rocky reef snorkeller or shallow water diver!
Species information
Statistics
Up to 50cm longConservation status
Thought to be common, although wild wrasse are caught around the UK in large numbers for deployment as lice cleaners in Scottish salmon farms
When to see
April-October. They often hide in rocky crevices over winter.About
The largest of the UK wrasse species, ballan wrasse have incredibly strong teeth which they use to pull molluscs and barnacles off the rocks, before extra teeth in their throats crush shells and finish the job. You will sometimes see this large fish surrounded by smaller rock cooks, who clean its parasites.How to identify
These heavy-bodied fish reach a maximum length of 60cm.Colouration and patterning are extremely variable in adults, ranging from mottled greens, browns and oranges to saddle-type markings. Juveniles are usually a bright emerald green colour throughout the body. Long, jagged, upright dorsal fin extends down towards the tail.
Distribution
Common around all British and Irish coasts.Habitats
Did you know?
All ballan wrasse start off life as females but the most dominant fish will become males later on in life.
Bertie Gregory/2020VISION