Care
The Jade Sleeper Goby has a wide area of distribution and inhabits a variety of habitats from freshwater channels, marshes, muddy ponds, rivers, and streams, along with brackish mangrove forests. Here they congregate in groups numbering as many as 30 individuals, feeding together and excavating tunnels in the muddy/silty substrate, sometimes even commandeering crab burrows. This is a robust, bulky species which does attain a large size. Just how large though, seems subject for debate, with sources citing 70cm (27.6") for the largest specimen ever recorded, yet most aquarists and ichthyologists agree on 15-30cm (5.9-11.8") being much more usual. It is therefore important to make sure that the aquarium is voluminous, with plenty of space for this goby to grow into and not become stunted. There should be a soft sand substrate and plenty of hiding places amongst driftwood and rocky caves. Unfortunately, aquatic plants will be eaten, so these are best avoided - or else use plastic or silk varieties. Filtration should be efficient with decent water movement and oxygenation. Although unfussy with regards to water parameters, it is important that frequent partial water changes are carried out on a regular basis to help keep nitrate to a minimum. This species can be maintained in groups, providing there is an abundance of visual barriers amongst the décor, and that the tank itself is roomy, otherwise they may bicker over territories. Tankmates should be of similar size and able to hold their own. Good companions could include large barbs, Loricariidae (suckermouth catfish), large characins such as adult Metynnis/Myleus spp. etc in freshwater aquaria, and in brackish water, they could be kept alongside Monos, Scats, and Tiger Fish. Do not house with small, timid fish or any slow, long-finned species; Jade Sleeper Gobies will eat any fishes small enough to fit in their mouths. Ensure that the aquarium has a tight fitting cover as these fish will jump. May also be seen on sale as Fat Sleeper Goby.
Feeding
These gobies require a variety of foodstuffs, both meaty and vegetable-based, appropriate to their size. Smaller specimens will enjoy bloodworm, white mosquito larvae, and Spirulina/vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, plus small sinking pellets and good quality flake/crisps. Move on to bigger foodstuffs such as Mysis, krill, larger sinking pellets etc as the fish grow. Do remember to include a vegetable component to the diet for best long-term health.
Breeding
D. maculatus has a pelagic marine larval stage, which makes successful rearing of fry very challenging in the home aquarium.
