COD SLEEPY 12-13cm

Sleepy Cod (Oxyeleotris lineolata) is a medium-to-large predatory freshwater fish (gudgeon/eleotrid) native to tropical northern Australia (and questionably New Guinea). It is known for its “sleepy” behaviour—lurking motionless on the bottom or among cover before ambushing prey with quick strikes. It also has a robust, elongated body, a broad head, a large mouth, and mottled brown/tan patterns for camouflage. Sleepy Cod are demersal (bottom-dwelling). They are not very active swimmers. They suit experienced keepers with large setups.

TANK SET UP: Large tank (minimum 200–500 litres for one adult, larger preferred due to size and waste production). Use a fine-sand or smooth-gravel substrate, plenty of hiding spots (driftwood, rocks, caves, plants), and a secure lid (they can jump).

TANK MATE: They are solitary and highly predatory—best kept alone or with large, robust tankmates of similar size (e.g., large catfish, barramundi, Saratoga). Avoid smaller fish/shrimp, they will be eaten.

FILTRATION: Strong filtration is essential due to their size, predatory nature, and high waste output (carnivorous diet). Canister filters, sump systems, or high-flow setups work well for larger tanks.

MAINTENANCE: 20–50% weekly (or 10–30% more frequently for smaller setups) to control nitrates and maintain quality.

Smaller, more frequent changes are often better than large infrequent ones.

LIGHTING: Dim lighting helps them feel secure.

FEEDING: Offer live/frozen/fresh meaty foods like feeder fish, prawns, earthworms, yabbies, or squid.