Cobia

Rachycentron Canadus

Quick Facts

Scientific name Rachycentron Canadus

Other names Black King, Black Kingfish, Cobe, Crab Eater, Crabeater, Lemon Fish, Ling, Sergeant Fish

Size Up to 2 m (6.5 ft)

Weight Up to 68 kb (150 lb)

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Coastal waters, open ocean, inshore & offshore reefs, estuaries, bays, rivers

Depth Range

Interesting Info

The Cobia is mostly a solitary fish, but does school during spawning and sometimes found in groups hear areas of structure like wrecks, buoys, oil rigs and reefs.
They are widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters. In Australia they are found in most places except for southern waters.
Cobia are often confused with Remoras. The distinguishing features between the two include the dorsal sucker and slender body of the Remora.
Cobia are carnivores, feeding on smaller fish, squid & crustaceans. They are also know to be scavenge, following sharks, turtles & manta rays in search of discarded or missed pieces of food.
Estimated lifespan is around 15 years. With breeding happening offshore between the months of April and September.
The Cobia is the only species in the family Rachycentridae.
The main predators of Cobia include sharks and larger predatory fish.

Species Interaction

Commercial & Recreational Fishing

Cobia are a popular recreational fish known for their strong fight and large size. They can be caught from shore or boat and are abundant throughout most Australian coastlines excluding the south. They have a growing commercial relevance and in recent times are being farmed in certain parts of the world.