(Stord - Hordaland / 13 meters / 8.17.2004)

Phylum: Chordata

Superclass: Gnathostomata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Perciformes

Family: Labridae

Scientific name: Labrus berggylta

 

Norwegian: berggylt

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Distribution: The Ballan wrasse is common on the southern and western coast of Norway, but registration has been made as far north as Trøndelag, where the picture to the left is taken. In the summer it can be found just below the tidal zone. In the winter, when the water is colder, they migrate to larger depths, down to 100 meters.

Characteristics: This is the largest wrasse commonly seen in Norway. Specimens reaching 3,5 kg and 60 cm have been registered. The head profile is rounded, the mouth small. The dorsal fin has 19-20 spiny rays and 9-11 soft rays. The coloration is usually dominated by a brown pattern.

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