How to Identify Green Wrasse

To identify Green Wrasse (Labrus viridis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Highly variable; typically bright green to olive-green, often with a lighter, sometimes yellowish, belly. Some individuals may exhibit reddish or brownish hues, especially larger males. Juveniles often have a more uniform green or brownish coloration. A distinctive dark spot may be present at the base of the pectoral fin, and sometimes a dark stripe along the lateral line.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Robust body with a relatively large head, Thick, fleshy lips, Large, prominent scales, Often a dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin, Can change sex (protogynous hermaphrodite)

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 18-21 spines and 9-13 soft rays. The spiny portion is longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Large and fan-like, typically with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, located directly below the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic green to olive-green body color. Note that coloration can vary significantly based on age, sex, and habitat, but green is the predominant hue.

2. 2

   Body Shape and Lips

   Observe its robust, elongated body and thick, fleshy lips, which are typical of Labrus species.

3. 3

   Pectoral Fin Spot

   Check for a dark spot, often black or dark brown, at the base of the pectoral fin. This is a common, though not universal, identifying mark.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Note the long dorsal fin with a distinct spiny anterior portion and a shorter soft-rayed posterior portion.

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