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Juvenile Wrasse (e.g., Ballan Wrasse, Corkwing Wrasse)

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Juvenile Wrasse (e.g., Ballan Wrasse, Corkwing Wrasse)

Labrus bergylta (Ballan), Crenilabrus melops (Corkwing)

Young wrasse are lively, inquisitive fish that dart quickly among seaweed and rocks. They eat small crustaceans, molluscs, and barnacles, helping to manage invertebrate numbers. On Lihou, if you examine clear rockpools or shallow kelp stands, you might catch a flash of colour as one zips away to hide under fronds.

  • Habitat: Kelp forests, rocky reefs, and weedy pools close to shore.
  • When to See: Late spring to early autumn; juveniles wander into rockpools.
  • Length: Typically 5–15 cm for juveniles (adults can reach over 40 cm)