Fin's Fish Guide
The Grey wrasse (Symphodus cinereus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 16 cm.
Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in seagrass and algae beds of shallow water, also in brackish lagoons.
Description
The grey wrasse is a small, inconspicuous wrasse of the family Labridae reaching about 16 cm. The elongate body is grey-brown to greenish and mottled, with the thick lips typical of wrasses; characteristic are a dark spot at the tail base and one on the gill cover. The species lives in seagrass and algae beds of shallow water of the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, and also enters brackish lagoons. Among the plants it searches for small crustaceans, molluscs and worms, which it crushes with strong throat teeth. In spring the male builds a nest of weed and guards the eggs. Because of its small size and inconspicuous colour it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Grey wrasse?
The Grey wrasse has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Small, inconspicuous wrasse with thick lips and a dark blotch on the caudal base and on the operculum; hides among seagrass.
Where does the Grey wrasse live?
The Grey wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, in seagrass and algae beds of shallow water, also in brackish lagoons.
How big does the Grey wrasse get?
The Grey wrasse grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Grey wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Grey wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Grey wrasse edible?
The Grey wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Grey 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 Symphodus
More from the family Labridae
Want the complete picture on the Grey wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Grey wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.