Fin's Fish Guide
The Marbled waspfish (Cottapistus cottoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Tetrarogidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Asia: Australia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Viet Nam and others
Description
The marbled waspfish is a waspfish (Tetrarogidae) from shallow coastal, estuarine and muddy-shore water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a stocky, brown-marbled body with a dorsal fin starting high on the head and skin flaps, strongly camouflaged on the bottom. As a motionless ambush predator it lies among mud, weed and rubble and snaps at small crustaceans and small fish. The dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marbled waspfish?
The Marbled waspfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the Marbled waspfish live?
The Marbled waspfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Australia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Viet Nam and others
How big does the Marbled waspfish get?
The Marbled waspfish grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Marbled waspfish dangerous to humans?
The Marbled waspfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
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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 Marbled waspfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marbled waspfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.