The brown wrasse (*Labrus merula*) is a robust, coastal fish native to the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, easily identified by its thick lips and mottled brown coloration. Preferring rocky reefs and seagrass beds, the brown wrasse is a popular target for small-scale commercial and recreational fisheries, especially in southern Europe. The top countries harvesting brown wrasse include Italy, Spain, Greece, and Turkey, where the species is commonly caught using hook-and-line or small nets. While not a primary target for large-scale commercial operations, brown wrasse is valued locally for its firm, flavorful flesh and is often sold fresh in regional markets. Sustainable management is crucial, as the species is vulnerable to overfishing due to its relatively slow growth and site fidelity.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spain | 2 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.