COBBLER WOBBEGONG

Photographs copyright of Andy Murch all rights reserved.

View all available Cobbler Wobbegong Shark Pictures in the SHARKIVE

Common Names: Cobbler wobbegong, Cobbler carpet shark.

Latin Name: Sutorectus tentaculatus

Family: Orectolobidae  

Identification: Dorsum covered in large dermal denticles (tubercles) giving a warty appearance. Markings consist of dark saddles with corrugated margins, separated by thinner pale areas with mottled dark irregular spots. Nasal barbells thin and un-branched. Four skin flaps (1 then 2 then 1) on each side of mouth. Upper jaw contains two rows of small fang-like teeth. Lower jaw contains three rows.

Size: 92cm. Birth size approx 22cm. Males mature at around 65cm.

Habitat: Found on rocky and coral reefs. Often in kelp.

Abundance and distribution: From the Abrollos Islands Western Australia, to Adelaide, Southern Australia. More common in South Australia.

Behavior:  Remains motionless during the day usually hidden under kelp or ledges. Probably forages for benthic inverts. and bony fishes as well as co-species.

Reproduction: Presumed ovoviviparous.

Observations:

Photographs: Bremer bay, Western Australia.

Similar species: There are seven described species and a few undescribed species of wobbegongs. Most can be distinguished by barbell configuration and markings. The tubercles on the Cobbler wobbegong's back easily distinguish it from other species.

Reaction to divers: Remains at rest relying on camouflage unless harassed. I spent about twenty minutes slowly removing kelp from around the photographed individual and it remained motionless through the entire process.

Diving logistics: This wobbegong can occasionally be seen around Albany and Bremer bay in south western Australia. Although, it may be more commonly encountered further east. If diving at Bremer Bay contact Craig Lebens of Bremer Bay Dive Club. As well as the local charter operator he is an expert on Sea dragons and knows each site where they occur. In the summer months at Bremer it is also possible to find Necklace carpet sharks in the shallows.

Other diving locations submitted by readers: 

References and further reading:

Reef Sharks and Rays of the World. Scott W. Michael. Sea Challengers.

Sharks and Rays - Elasmobranch Guide of the World. Ralf M. Hennemann. IKAN.

Sharks of the World - L. Compagno et al.

Sharks and Rays of Australia - CSIRO (1994)

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