Fin's Fish Guide
The Ballan wrasse (Labrus bergylta) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 66 cm.
Northeast Atlantic from Norway to Morocco, on rocky, seaweed-covered coasts.
Description
The ballan wrasse is the largest wrasse of north-western Europe; this species of the family Labridae reaches about 65 cm. The sturdy body has thick, fleshy lips and strong jaw teeth, and the colour is highly variable: brown-green to red-brown, usually with a fine net pattern of pale spots. The species lives on rocky, weedy shores of the north-eastern Atlantic, from shallow water to a few tens of metres. With its powerful jaws it crushes shellfish, crabs, sea urchins and snails. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite: females can change into males. The male builds a nest of weeds and guards the eggs. It is used, among other things, as a 'cleaner fish' against sea lice in salmon farms.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ballan wrasse?
The Ballan wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Largest wrasse of north-west Europe; sturdy thick lips and strong jaw teeth, a variable brown-green colour with a net pattern of light spots.
Where does the Ballan wrasse live?
The Ballan wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Northeast Atlantic from Norway to Morocco, on rocky, seaweed-covered coasts.
How big does the Ballan wrasse get?
The Ballan wrasse grows to a maximum of about 66 cm. On average the species is around 50 cm.
Is the Ballan wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Ballan wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ballan wrasse edible?
The Ballan wrasse is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Ballan wrasse and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labrus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Ballan wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ballan wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.