Fin's Fish Guide
The Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper (Eleotris pisonis) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Eleotridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Eleotris pisonis is a sleeper goby of the family Eleotridae from coastal waters and estuaries of tropical America. The species has an elongate, dark body with a flattened head and a spine on the cheek, and reaches about 25 cm. It tolerates strongly varying salinities and prefers estuarine freshwater tributaries with muddy or sandy bottoms. The diet consists of dipteran larvae, crustaceans such as crabs and shrimps, and small fishes, and changes with season and age. The gonads develop during the dry season.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper?
The Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Spine on the cheek; highly tolerant of changing salinity.
Where does the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper live?
The Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Coastal waters and estuaries of tropical America.
How big does the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper get?
The Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Small-scaled spinycheek 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 Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper edible?
The Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Eleotris
More from the family Eleotridae
Want the complete picture on the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Small-scaled spinycheek sleeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.