Fin's Fish Guide
The Longsnout wrasse (Symphodus rostratus) is a saltwater fish of the family Labridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, especially among seagrass and on vegetated rocky bottoms.
Description
The longsnout wrasse is a slender wrasse of the family Labridae reaching about 18 cm. Characteristic is the strikingly pointed, slightly upturned snout; the colour varies greatly, from green and brown to yellowish, and adapts to the surroundings of seagrass and weeds. The species lives mainly among seagrass beds and on weedy rock bottoms of the Mediterranean and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, from shallow to moderate depths. With its pointed snout it picks small crustaceans and invertebrates from among the plants. Like many wrasses it is a protogynous hermaphrodite. The male builds a nest of weeds among the seagrass and guards the eggs. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longsnout wrasse?
The Longsnout wrasse has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Slender wrasse with a conspicuously pointed, upturned snout; the colour varies greatly and adapts to seagrass and seaweeds.
Where does the Longsnout wrasse live?
The Longsnout wrasse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and the adjacent eastern Atlantic, especially among seagrass and on vegetated rocky bottoms.
How big does the Longsnout wrasse get?
The Longsnout wrasse grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Longsnout wrasse dangerous to humans?
No, the Longsnout wrasse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longsnout wrasse edible?
The Longsnout wrasse is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Longsnout 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 Longsnout wrasse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longsnout wrasse is one of 12,519 species in the app.