Sleepy Cod 9cm

Sleepy Cod

The Sleepy Cod is a powerful, ambush-hunting predator that brings an unmatched presence to a freshwater aquarium or pond. Native to Australia and New Guinea, this species is known for its lethargic yet calculated hunting style, lurking motionless for long periods before striking at prey with lightning-fast speed. Despite their name, Sleepy Cod are anything but slow when it comes to feeding time! Their hardy nature and adaptability make them an intriguing species for experienced aquarists looking for a unique large predatory fish.

Sleepy Cod have a robust, elongated body covered in mottled brown, green, and tan patterns, helping them blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This camouflage is their primary hunting advantage, allowing them to ambush unsuspecting prey with precision. Their broad head, large mouth, and thick, muscular body give them an intimidating appearance, and as they mature, their colours may deepen or take on subtle variations depending on their habitat and diet. Growing up to 50 cm in length, they require a large tank or pond to accommodate their size and predatory behaviour.

Breeding Sleepy Cod in captivity is challenging, as they require specific environmental triggers such as seasonal temperature changes and flowing water conditions. Males are known to be territorial during spawning and will guard eggs until they hatch. However, in most aquarium settings, breeding is rare due to their size and specific requirements.

Tank Recommendations for your Sleepy Cod

Due to their large adult size, Sleepy Cod requires a minimum tank size of 500 litres, though larger is always better. A spacious tank with hiding spots, driftwood, and rocky caves will help replicate their natural environment. A fine sand or gravel substrate is ideal, as these fish tend to rest on the bottom. They are tolerant of a wide range of water conditions but prefer slightly warmer temperatures between 22-28°C. Since they are powerful predators, a secure tank lid is essential to prevent accidental escapes.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Sleepy Cod are solitary, highly predatory fish that do best when kept alone or with large, robust tank mates.

Usually Compatible

Other large, tough fish such as barramundi,and  saratoga, and large catfish like Tandanus catfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Large perch species, bass, and Murray cod. Tank mates must be similar in size, as anything smaller will likely become food.

Rarely Compatible

Small or slow-moving fish, shrimp, or anything that can fit into the Sleepy Cod's mouth. Community fish should be avoided entirely.

Feeding your Sleepy Cod

Sleepy Cod are voracious carnivores that thrive on a diet of meaty foods. In the wild, they prey on fish, crustaceans, and insects, and in captivity, they will eagerly accept live, frozen, or fresh meaty foods. While they can be trained to eat pellets, they tend to prefer whole prey items such as feeder fish, prawns, earthworms, and yabbies. Overfeeding can lead to rapid growth, so feeding should be carefully managed to maintain good health.