Cobia

Rachycentron canadum

Least Concern Saltwater

Max Length

200.0 cm

Max Weight

68.0 kg

Color

Dark brown to black back …

Depth Range

0-1200m

Family

Rachycentridae

About

The cobia is a powerful pelagic fish that often follows large rays, sharks, and turtles. Its flattened head and elongated body resemble a shark. Excellent table fare with firm, white flesh, it is increasingly farmed in aquaculture.

Physical Description

Measurement	Value
Maximum Length	200.0 cm
Maximum Weight	68.0 kg
Depth Range	0-1200m

Coloration

Dark brown to black back with two pale white or silver lateral stripes flanking a dark brown mid-lateral band; belly cream-white; juveniles display more vivid black, white, and orange banding.

Habitat & Distribution

Pelagic, coral reefs, estuaries

Water Type

Saltwater

Depth Range

0-1200m

Geographic Range

Worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans, absent only from the eastern Pacific. Found in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Indo-Pacific, and off Australia; frequents open coastal waters, reefs, and floating objects.

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Conservation Status

Least Concern IUCN Red List

Cobia is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Edibility & Culinary

Taste

Firm, moist white flesh with a mild, buttery flavor; moderate fat and large, clean flakes. Extremely versatile — excellent grilled, smoked, raw as sashimi, or used in ceviche.

Fishing Information

Game Fish

Yes

Fight Rating

8/5

Recommended Bait

live eels, crabs, jigs, cut bait

Taxonomy

Order	Carangiformes (Jacks and pompanos)
Family	Rachycentridae (Cobia)
Species	Rachycentron canadum

Names in Other Languages

Language	Name
French	Mafou
Spanish	Cobia

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat Cobia?

Firm, moist white flesh with a mild, buttery flavor; moderate fat and large, clean flakes. Extremely versatile — excellent grilled, smoked, raw as sashimi, or used in ceviche.

How big does Cobia get?

Cobia can grow up to 200.0 cm long and weigh 68.0 kg.

Where is Cobia found?

Is Cobia endangered?

The conservation status of Cobia is Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List.

What family does Cobia belong to?

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) belongs to the family Rachycentridae (Cobia) in the order Carangiformes (Jacks and pompanos).