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Cuckoo Wrasse

(Labrus mixtus)

One of the most colourful fish in UK seas, the Cuckoo Wrasse looks like it belongs in the tropics. Don’t be fooled though, it’s very much a native species.
Male cuckoo wrasse ©David Stephens
Cuckoo Wrasse (male)
Male cuckoo wrasse ©Paul Naylor www.marinephoto.co.uk
Cuckoo Wrasse (male)
Female Cuckoo Wrasse ©Paul Naylor www.marinephoto.co.uk
Cuckoo Wrasse (female)

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Overview

There are 4 types of wrasse common in UK seas, all of which are found in rocky areas around our coasts. They feed predominantly on molluscs, including limpets and mussels, and crustaceans, but will also eat small fish if the opportunity arises. They have powerful teeth and jaws which can be used to crush through shells!

Key Facts

  • Cuckoo Wrasse are a large, slender fish. Their colourful markings make them unmistakeable. The female is orangey-pink with black and white spots on her back and the male has electric blue markings on his head and back.
  • Cuckoo Wrasse start life as females! They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change to males when there is a need. There is normally a single dominant male on the reef and if he dies, the most senior female will change sex and become the top male!
  • Length: Up to 35cm

Status

Listed as of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Seasonality

All year round

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