Fin's Fish Guide
The Madagascar sleeper (Ratsirakia legendrei) is a freshwater fish of the family Eleotridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The Madagascar sleeper is a sleeper (Eleotridae) endemic to Madagascar. The species has a stocky, dark-mottled body with a flattened head. Unlike many related gobies it lives strictly in fresh water, in the highlands and the eastern mountain versant of the island. It lives bottom-bound in streams and rivers and is an ambush hunter that takes small invertebrates and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Madagascar sleeper?
The Madagascar sleeper has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Strictly fresh water (unusual for the family); bottom ambush predator endemic to Madagascar.
Where does the Madagascar sleeper live?
The Madagascar sleeper lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Endemic to Madagascar; highland streams and rivers.
How big does the Madagascar sleeper get?
The Madagascar sleeper grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Madagascar sleeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Madagascar sleeper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Madagascar sleeper edible?
The Madagascar sleeper is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Madagascar sleeper?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Eleotridae
Want the complete picture on the Madagascar sleeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Madagascar sleeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.