Fin's Fish Guide
The Tailspot sleeper (Oxyeleotris urophthalmus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Eleotridae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The tailspot sleeper is a sleeper goby (Eleotridae) from fresh and brackish water of lower river reaches and swamps in the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has an elongate, dark-brown body with a conspicuous dark spot on the tail base, a broad head and separate pelvic fins. As a bottom-oriented ambush hunter it shelters among roots, plants and leaf litter and seizes small fish, crustaceans and insects. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tailspot sleeper?
The Tailspot sleeper has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Tailspot sleeper live?
The Tailspot sleeper lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Tailspot sleeper get?
The Tailspot sleeper grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Tailspot sleeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Tailspot 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.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oxyeleotris
More from the family Eleotridae
Want the complete picture on the Tailspot sleeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tailspot sleeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.