Fin's Fish Guide
The Fat sleeper (Dormitator maculatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Eleotridae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The fat sleeper (Dormitator maculatus) is a stocky sleeper goby of the family Eleotridae from coastal waters and estuaries of tropical America. The species has a robust, brownish body with a blunt head and usually a blue spot behind the gill cover, and can reach about 70 cm, although most fish stay much smaller. It inhabits marshes, muddy ponds and channels and tolerates strongly varying salinities, from fresh to hypersaline water. As an omnivore it feeds on detritus, algae and small invertebrates. The species is hardy and locally a valued food fish; the roe is also eaten in parts of Central America.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fat sleeper?
The Fat sleeper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Stocky, hardy sleeper goby with a blue shoulder blotch; tolerates fresh to hypersaline water.
Where does the Fat sleeper live?
The Fat sleeper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters, estuaries and swamps of tropical America.
How big does the Fat sleeper get?
The Fat sleeper grows to a maximum of about 70 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Fat sleeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Fat 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 Fat sleeper edible?
Yes, the Fat sleeper is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dormitator
More from the family Eleotridae
Want the complete picture on the Fat sleeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fat sleeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.