Awaous ocellaris, also known as the “ocellated sleeper goby,” is a species of fish belonging to the Gobiidae family. This small fish, reaching a maximum size of 15.5 cm, is an intriguing inhabitant of freshwater and brackish water environments.
Description & Characteristics
Awaous ocellaris exhibits a slender, elongated body, characteristic of gobies. Its coloration can vary, but it typically displays a light brown to olive-green base with darker brown or black blotches scattered across its body. These markings resemble “eyes,” giving it the name “ocellated sleeper goby.” The fish has a prominent dorsal fin, divided into two sections, and a rounded caudal fin.
Habitat and Occurrence
Awaous ocellaris is a resident of shallow freshwater and brackish water environments, particularly those with a sandy or muddy bottom. It can be found in estuaries, rivers, streams, and even mangrove swamps. These habitats are usually characterized by slow-moving water and abundant vegetation. The species has a depth range of 0.0 – 5.0 meters, often found in the upper layers of the water column.
Taxonomy
The species Awaous ocellaris belongs to the Gobiidae family, which comprises a vast array of small, bottom-dwelling fishes commonly known as gobies. The Gobiidae family is part of the Order Gobiiformes, which includes other fish families like the sleepers and the mudskippers. This order, in turn, belongs to the Class Teleostei, a diverse group of bony fishes that represents the majority of living fish species.
Feeding
Awaous ocellaris is a carnivorous fish, primarily feeding on insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates. They use their mouths to pick up prey from the substrate or filter food from the water column.
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