Eleotris

Eleotris is a genus of fish in the family Eleotridae, commonly known as sleepers. These fish are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, typically inhabiting freshwater and brackish water environments. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, flattened heads, and large mouths. Sleepers are generally small in size, with most species reaching lengths of less than 20 cm.

Eleotris annobonensis

Sandwich Island sleeper – Eleotris sandwicensis

Spinecheek gudgeon – Eleotris acanthopomus

Eleotris senegalensis

Dusky sleeper – Eleotris fusca

Smallscaled spinycheek sleeper – Eleotris perniger

Eleotris oxycephala

Common Names

Species of Eleotris are known by various common names, including sleepers, mudskippers, and gobies. These names reflect their habitat preferences and their ability to live in oxygen-poor environments.

Characteristics

Eleotris species share several distinctive characteristics:

  • Elongated body with a flattened head
  • Large mouth with prominent lips
  • Small, widely spaced eyes
  • Single dorsal fin with a spiny anterior portion and a soft posterior portion
  • Two separate anal fins
  • Pelvic fins fused into a disc-like structure

Environment

Eleotris species are primarily found in freshwater and brackish water environments, such as rivers, estuaries, mangroves, and swamps. They are often found in areas with muddy or sandy bottoms and abundant vegetation. Some species are tolerant of low oxygen levels and can even survive out of water for short periods.

References

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