Fin's Fish Guide
The Cobbler (Gymnapistes marmoratus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Tetrarogidae that grows up to 23 cm.
Description
The soldier waspfish is a waspfish (Tetrarogidae, related to the scorpionfishes) from the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia. The species grows to about 23 cm and has a stocky, brown-marbled body with a large head and long, venomous dorsal, pelvic and anal fin spines. It lives in shallow coastal waters, often among weed and seagrass, and is mainly active at night; by day it lies motionless. It spawns in August-September. As an ambush hunter it springs on small crustaceans and small fishes. The venomous fin spines give an extremely painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cobbler?
The Cobbler has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Long, venomous fin spines; nocturnal ambush predator of seaweeds and seagrass.
Where does the Cobbler live?
The Cobbler lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Temperate coastal waters of southern Australia; seaweed and seagrass.
How big does the Cobbler get?
The Cobbler grows to a maximum of about 23 cm.
Is the Cobbler dangerous to humans?
The Cobbler is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Cobbler edible?
The Cobbler is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Tetrarogidae
Want the complete picture on the Cobbler?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cobbler is one of 12,519 species in the app.