Photographs copyright of Andy
Murch all rights reserved.
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Cobbler Wobbegong Shark Pictures
in the
Shark Pictures Database
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)
