Fin's Fish Guide
The Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is a saltwater fish of the family Rachycentridae that grows up to 200 cm.
Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, except the eastern Pacific; pelagic in coastal water, often around wrecks, buoys and floating objects.
Description
The cobia is a large, streamlined predator of the family Rachycentridae reaching about 2 metres. The brown, elongate body has a flat, broad head and a dark lengthwise stripe with paler edges, making the fish strongly resemble a large remora or even a small shark. The species is widespread in warm seas worldwide and lives pelagically in coastal water, often around wrecks, buoys and floating objects, where it seeks prey. It hunts crabs, shrimps, squid and fish. The cobia is a powerful, sought-after sport and food fish with tasty flesh and is also farmed in aquaculture.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cobia?
The Cobia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Large, streamlined predator with a flat head and a dark longitudinal stripe; closely resembles a suckerfish (remora) or a small shark.
Where does the Cobia live?
The Cobia lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, except the eastern Pacific; pelagic in coastal water, often around wrecks, buoys and floating objects.
How big does the Cobia get?
The Cobia grows to a maximum of about 200 cm. On average the species is around 110 cm.
Is the Cobia dangerous to humans?
No, the Cobia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cobia edible?
Yes, the Cobia is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Cobia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cobia is one of 12,519 species in the app.