Fin's Fish Guide
The Blacktail wrasse (Centrolabrus melanocercus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The blacktail wrasse is a small wrasse (Labridae) from the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean. The species grows to about 14 cm and has an elongate, brown-green body with a dark band at the tail base. As a reef-dweller it lives over rocky bottoms and seagrass beds and picks small invertebrates; juveniles sometimes act as cleaners, removing parasites from other fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blacktail wrasse?
The Blacktail wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly green.
Where does the Blacktail wrasse live?
The Blacktail wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Europe: Albania, Algeria, Cyprus, France, Greece, Israel and others
How big does the Blacktail wrasse get?
The Blacktail wrasse grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Blacktail wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Blacktail wrasse is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Blacktail wrasse and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Blacktail wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktail wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Centrolabrus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Blacktail wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blacktail wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.