Description
Sleepy Cod are a hardy fish that tolerates handling and transport well. Young fish adapt quickly and become interactive with their keeper as they mature. Looks deceptively slow and reluctant to move, especially during the day (hence the common name), but is a lethal predator to smaller fish.
Widespread from the Fitzroy River in Queensland North throughout Cape York, the Gulf of Carpentaria and West to the Ord River system
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Features of Sleepy Cod:
-
Elongated body with a large mouth
- Mottled brown, beige and grey markings covering body that follows a lateral line, ideal for camouflage
- Paddle shaped fins
- Bottom dwelling predatory fish
- Grows to 45cm
The Best Aquarium Size for Sleepy Cod:
Sleepy Cod grow large and require a tank size at least 200L. They are not an overly active species and lay in wait to ambush prey. Due to their size and waste production, we recommend keeping in larger aquariums.
Fish tank brands to consider:
After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse Aquarium Tank Selection here.
Tank Mate Compatibility:
Sleepy Cod are best kept with other large species that they do not consider a meal. Sleepy Cod are ambush predators and are known to consume fish up to half it's body size. It can be kept as a single species or with the following species.
Diet :
Sleepy Cod are predatory carnivores and will readily accept bulky high protein meals such as squid, prawns and fish. Their preference is live foods, however may accept some frozen foods. At times can be fussy eaters and out competed for food due to their ambush hunting style.
Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods.
Sleepy Cod Tank Setup:
Aquarium Filtration Sleepy Cod
A good filtration system is necessary to maintain clean water. This species enjoys highly oxygenated water, but a gentle flow. Ensure ample water agitate to improve oxygenation and consider adding an air pump and stone. Ensure your filter has an adequate flow rate for your aquarium size to effective remove waste and debris.
Shop our comprehensive range of aquarium filters here.
Aquarium Heater for Sleepy Cod
This fish enjoy temperatures between 22 - 27° C. If you are unable to maintain this temperature naturally, use an aquarium heater. Aquarium heaters also stabilize water temperatures. A thermometer is recommended to monitor the water temperature.
Aquarium Plants for Sleepy Cod
Aquarium plant cover is appreciated, but not essential. Consider broad leaf sturdy plants for added cover and shade. Sleepy Cod will not consume plant material.
Here are some great aquarium plants to try:
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Aquarium Decorations for Sleepy Cod
Add some rock and driftwood structure to the aquarium for your sleepy cod to lay and wait for prey.
After more nice quality decorations? Check our Aquarium Ornaments.
Aquarium Lighting for Sleepy Cod
Sleepy Cod appreciate a dimly lit aquarium. They are usually found in darker waters with muddy bottoms. LED lighting is an excellent choice to provide adjustable lighting as desired. LED lighting is also more efficient and runs cooler than traditional aquarium lights.
Aquarium Substrate for Sleepy Cod
Aquarium sand or smooth gravels are perfect for the sleepy cod. As they are bottom dwellers they will spend their time on the aquarium floor.
A variety of Substrates are available at Coburg Aquarium.
*Images used with permission
