Cobbler (fish) - Definition and Overview

The cobbler Cnidoglanis macrocephalus is an eeltail catfish found along the coasts of Australia, favoring shallow protected waters near river mouths. It is also known as "deteira", "estuary catfish", and "South Australian catfish".

Like other eeltails, the cobbler resembles a catfish in front, but an eel behind. Its mottled green body ranges up to 91 cm in length. The dorsal and pectoral fins have spines.

Cobblers stay in holes and under ledges during the day, then come out at night to feed on mollusks, crustaceans, polychaete worms, algae, and organic debris.

The South Australian cobbler Gymnapistes marmoratus is also called just "cobbler" in Australia; the term is also used in the Caribbean for several species in Trachinotus.