Cobia

ID points

• A dark brown stripe edged in white along the flank
• Head broad and flattened, with the lower jaw slightly projecting
• Looks much like a remora, but has no sucker on top of the head

Basics

Family

Rachycentridae

Length

100–180 cm

Depth

0-70 m

Regions

Open ocean

Distribution

Coastal open water in tropical and subtropical seas

Diet

Crabs, squid, small fish

Easily confused with

CodA single prominent short barbel under the chinWhitetip Reef SharkWhite tips on the first dorsal fin and the upper tail lobeBarracudaLong spear-like body with a bright silvery sheen

Fun fact

Young Cobia often tag along behind manta rays, sharks and even turtles, using their bulk as cover. Adults are powerfully built and quick swimmers, and they rank as an important game fish for anglers.