Fin's Fish Guide
The Dark sleeper (Odontobutis obscura) is a fish of the family Odontobutidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Odontobutis obscura, the dark sleeper, is a freshwater fish of the family Odontobutidae from East Asia. The species has a stocky, dark-brown mottled body with a broad head and large mouth, and reaches about 25 cm. It lives on the bottom of slow-flowing rivers, streams and ponds, often among stones and vegetation, where it lies motionless in ambush. As an ambush predator it hunts mainly at night for small fishes, shrimps and insect larvae. In parts of Japan and China the species is eaten locally. Owing to its camouflage it is barely noticeable among the bottom vegetation.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dark sleeper?
The Dark sleeper is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Camouflaged bottom-dwelling stalking predator with a broad head and a big mouth.
Where does the Dark sleeper live?
The Dark sleeper is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of East Asia.
How big does the Dark sleeper get?
The Dark sleeper grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Dark sleeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Dark sleeper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Dark sleeper edible?
The Dark sleeper is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Odontobutis
More from the family Odontobutidae
Want the complete picture on the Dark sleeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dark sleeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.