Identification
The largest wrasse in the North Sea: up to 60 cm and 4 kg. Robust body with thick lips and powerful teeth for crushing shellfish. Extremely variable color: green, brown, red, or mottled — each individual has a unique pattern.
Behavior & ecology
Lives on rocky bottoms with dense seaweed. Solitary and territorial. Protogynous hermaphrodite: starts as female, changes to male later. Can reach 29 years old.
In the Netherlands
Not common due to limited rocky habitat. Observed near wrecks and artificial reefs.
