Fin's Fish Guide
The Cobbler (Paraplotosus albilabris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Plotosidae that grows up to 134 cm.
Description
The white-lipped eel catfish is an eeltail catfish (Plotosidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a robust, elongate, scaleless body with barbels, white lips and a continuous fin margin around the tail. It inhabits clear and turbid coral reefs, often on parts with mixed sand, weed and rubble. As a bottom hunter it feeds on crustaceans, molluscs and small fishes. The dorsal and pectoral fin spines carry venom; a sting causes intense pain.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cobbler?
The Cobbler has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. White lips and a continuous fin margin; eel catfish with venomous dorsal and pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Cobbler live?
The Cobbler lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral reefs.
How big does the Cobbler get?
The Cobbler grows to a maximum of about 134 cm. On average the species is around 40 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 carry venom; a sting causes intense, burning pain and swelling. Immerse the wound in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments and seek medical care.
Is the Cobbler edible?
Yes, the Cobbler is commonly eaten.
More photos
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.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paraplotosus
More from the family Plotosidae
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.