Ballan Wrasse
Labrus bergylta
Habitat: Kelp forest, rocky reef
Depth: 1-100m
Food: Crustaceans and molluscs
Length: Up to 60cm
Lifespan: 25 years
Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
Common in rocky kelp reefs, the ballan wrasse varies in colour from dark green to bright red with dappled markings. It has strong jaws to crush the shells of its food. Ballan wrasse are all born female and change sex when around 10-14 years old. The biggest ballan wrasse are males – they defend a territory and build a nest to attract females to breed.