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Grey Wrasse

Distribution : Mediterranean · Atlantic Ocean · Black Sea

A small sandy clearing bordered by Neptune grass can become the setting for an intricate contest. The territorial male grey wrasse maintains his nest and drives away competitors, while other males remain close enough to exploit an opportunity. Some smaller individuals resemble females and use that resemblance to take part in fertilising eggs. It is a strikingly complex social arrangement for a fish whose subdued colours make it easy to overlook.

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Habitat of Grey Wrasse Habitat
Sand, Rocky habitat, Seagrass meadow
Depth range of Grey Wrasse Depth
5-25 m
Biological group of Grey Wrasse Group
Ecological role of Grey Wrasse Role
Predator

Average size

8 cm

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The grey wrasse (Symphodus cinereus) is usually ash grey or beige, sometimes with a yellowish or pale green tinge. Some have two dark lines running along the body, while others are more evenly coloured.

On the small, elongated body, a black spot sits at the base of the tail. Its intensity varies, and it may become difficult to distinguish. A single fin runs along the back; the overall impression is of a slender fish with subtle markings.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It lives in shallow coastal areas, particularly on sandy seabeds, in Posidonia seagrass beds and in lagoons. It is frequently found in calm, sometimes slightly brackish environments, where it moves close to the seabed.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

The grey wrasse searches for food near the seabed. It catches small crustaceans, marine worms and molluscs living in or on the sand. It brings its snout close to the bottom and picks up prey with its mouth. Because these animals are often tiny or hidden among grains of sand, their movements are difficult to make out.

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Grey Wrasse

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