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Ballan Wrasse (Labrus bergylta)

Photo of Ballan Wrasse (Labrus bergylta)

Key facts

Scientific name
Labrus bergylta
Common name
Ballan Wrasse
Category
Fish
Family
Labridae
Genus
Labrus
Size
30–70 cm
Depth
2–100 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
rocky-reef, kelp-forest
Behaviours
benthic, territorial
Ocean zones
East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean

Description

Robust labrid (30-70 cm) coloured variable (grey-red-green by habitat). Massive head, fleshy lips. Coastal reef-algal habitat north (2-100 m) Northeast Atlantic. Territorial benthic herbivore and omnivore. Conservation: least concern. Diving: cold northern coast.

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Ballan Wrasse?
Ballan Wrasse (Labrus bergylta) reaches 30–70 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Ballan Wrasse?
Ballan Wrasse is found between 2–100 m deep.
Is the Ballan Wrasse dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Ballan Wrasse?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Ballan Wrasse?
Found in: East Atlantic, Macaronesia, Mediterranean.

Other species in the genus Labrus

  • Labrus merula - Brown wrasse
  • Labrus mixtus - Cuckoo Wrasse

Other species in the family Labridae

  • Cheilinus undulatus - Humphead wrasse
  • Sparisoma cretense - Mediterranean parrotfish
  • Symphodus mediterraneus - Axillary wrasse
  • Symphodus rostratus - Pointed-snout wrasse
  • Symphodus ocellatus - Ocellated wrasse
  • Coris julis - Mediterranean rainbow wrasse

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 126965)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2383624)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia