Ballan Wrasse

Photo: galargus · CC BY-NC

Large ballan wrasse up to 60 centimetres patrol the kelp margins, acting as cleaner fish for other species and as significant predators of sea urchins, maintaining kelp forest health by preventing urchin overgrazing. Their complex colour morphs — from mottled brown to vivid green spotted with white — reflect both sexual dimorphism and individual variation. They are a bellwether species for Atlantic rocky reef health, thriving where fishing pressure is low.