Corkwing Wrasse Symphodus melops

Corkwing Wrasse are native to the northeastern Atlantic from Norway/UK to Morocco and the Azores. They grow to some 15cm long (exceptionally to 25cm). They have distinguishing dark crescents behind the eye and a central, dark spot on the tail. Males in the breeding season are colourful, with bright turquoise stripes and reddish colours and will build nests of seaweed in crevices. Females are duller, brownish and some males may dull down to infiltrate nests of dominant males. Corkwing Wrasse are used on fish farms to remove lice from Salmon.