UK Seas

Discover the wonderful sea creatures that inhabit the UK seas and shores

UK seas is a guide to the fauna and flora found around UK coasts. While the majority of species are marine, some species are included that are regularly encountered on land by the coast, so you’ll find descriptions of non-marine species such as reptiles, amphibians, insects and plants as well.

Ballan wrasse

Labrus bergylta

Type

Fish

Description

A large, chunky fish with a big mouth, flattened sides to the body, in a variety of spots and colours. Can be very inquisitive, and investigate snorkellers from a respectful distance.

Starts life as a female, and may turn male as it grows older.

Location

All UK, especially North and East

Habitat

Rocky shore, Subtidal