Kuhliidae

The Kuhliidae, also known as the sleepers, are a family of perciform fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These fish are typically small to medium-sized, with elongated bodies and a distinctive lack of scales on their heads. They are known for their nocturnal habits, spending their days hidden in crevices and burrows and emerging at night to feed.

Barred flagtail – Kuhlia mugil

Silver flagtail – Kuhlia munda

Mascarenes Flagtail, Striped Flagtail, Silver Flagtail – Kuhlia caudavittata

Common Names

Kuhliidae are commonly referred to as "sleepers" due to their nocturnal behavior and tendency to lie motionless on the seabed. Other common names include "glassfish" for their translucent bodies, and "whiptail sleepers" for their long, whip-like tails.

Characteristics

Members of the Kuhliidae family exhibit a number of shared characteristics:

  • Elongated body: Sleepers have a slender, elongated body shape.
  • Scaleless head: Unlike most fish, Kuhliidae lack scales on their heads.
  • Small mouth: Their mouths are relatively small and protrusible.
  • Large eyes: They have large, prominent eyes adapted for low-light conditions.
  • Nocturnal habits: Sleepers are primarily active at night, resting during the day.
  • Carnivorous diet: They are carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and fish.

Environment

Kuhliidae inhabit a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Coral reefs: They are commonly found on coral reefs, especially in areas with crevices and caves.
  • Seagrass beds: Some species prefer seagrass meadows.
  • Rocky shores: They may also occur in rocky shores with abundant hiding places.

References

For further information on Kuhliidae, refer to the following sources: