Brown Wrasse

Descrizione

Labrus merula, commonly known as the Brown Wrasse or Tordo nero, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Labridae. It is a robust and relatively large wrasse found in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. This species exhibits significant sexual dimorphism and ontogenetic color changes, making identification sometimes challenging. It is a benthic species, typically found in rocky and seagrass habitats.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Highly variable. Males are typically dark blue to black, often with iridescent blue spots or lines on the head and fins. Females and juveniles are generally brown, reddish-brown, or greenish-brown, often mottled, with a lighter belly. A distinctive dark spot may be present at the base of the caudal fin in some individuals, particularly juveniles and females. During breeding, males can display more intense blue coloration.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

terminal

Caratteristiche distintive

Thick, fleshy lips, Large, prominent eyes, Single, long dorsal fin, Sexual dimorphism in coloration, Terminal mouth with conical teeth

Pinna dorsale

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

Pinna caudale

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Large and rounded pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

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

Consigli per l'identificazione

Habitat

Tipo di acqua

saltwater

Profondità

Typically found from 1 to 50 meters (3 to 164 feet), occasionally deeper to 100 meters (328 feet).

Ambiente

Prefers rocky bottoms, seagrass beds (Posidonia oceanica meadows), and areas with dense algal growth. Juveniles often inhabit shallower, more sheltered areas.

Areale geografico

Eastern Atlantic Ocean from Portugal to Senegal, including the Azores, Madeira, and Canary Islands. Widespread throughout the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea.

Informazioni sull'acquario

• Livello di cura: advanced
• Temperamento: semi-aggressive
• Dieta: carnivore
• Dimensione minima della vasca: 500 liters (130 gallons)
• Temperatura: 15-22°C (59-72°F)
• Livello di pH: 8.1-8.4
• Durezza: 8-12 dKH
• Compatibilità: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other large, robust, and non-aggressive temperate marine fish. Avoid keeping with smaller, timid fish or invertebrates that could be prey.
• Requisiti speciali: Requires a well-established temperate marine aquarium with ample live rock for hiding and foraging. A sand bed is beneficial for potential burrowing. Excellent filtration and stable water parameters are crucial. Not typically recommended for home aquaria due to size and specific temperature requirements.

Informazioni in natura

• Stato di conservazione: least concern
• Stagionalità: Present year-round, but more active and observable during warmer months. Spawning typically occurs in spring and early summer.
• Prezzo di mercato: Low to moderate, primarily for local consumption or as bycatch.
• Importanza commerciale: low
• Sapore: Mild, white flesh.
• Consistenza: Firm, flaky.
• Metodi di cottura: Baked, Grilled, Fried, Stewed
• Valore nutrizionale: Good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Fatti chiave

Specie simili

Classificazione scientifica

Regno

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Classe

Actinopterygii

Ordine

Perciformes

Famiglia

Labridae

Genere

Labrus

Specie

Labrus merula

Esplora Brown Wrasse