Pacific Fat Sleeper

Dormitator latifrons

"Fair Choice" Pet Fair Choice

Pacific Fat Sleepers are dark green, black or brown fish native to the coastal eastern Pacific Ocean, from California to Peru. They inhabit quiet coastal waters and estuaries over sandy or muddy bottoms. They are omnivorous, eating plants, detritus, and some invertebrates. They grow from 10 to 15 inches long and weigh up to half a pound.

Pacific Fat Sleepers are an important food resource for humans, and are the second most frequently caught fish species off the Pacific coast of Mexico. They are also farmed in Mexico for food.

Did You Know?

Pacific Fat Sleepers are also farmed in Mexico for food.

Source Sustainability Best Choice

Does the harvest for wildlife trade or captive breeding of this species harm wild populations?

Little Cause for Concern

Although Pacific Fat Sleepers are heavily fished, there is no evidence that their wild populations are declining or in danger of extinction.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Only acquire a pet that is from a reputable, USDA-licensed breeder or dealer to ensure that you are not buying an illegally wild-caught and/or imported animal.

Invasion Threat Unable to Rank Choice

Does the release or escape of this species into the wild harm the environment and/or economy?

Unable to Rank

PetWatch found no information on the invasion potential of Pacific Fat Sleepers.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Always keep your Pacific Fat Sleeper inside a safe and secure aquarium. Never release a pet into the wild.

Animal Welfare Fair Choice

Does harvest, captive breeding, transport, or being kept as a pet harm individual animals?

Some Cause for Concern

Pacific Fat Sleepers are difficult to keep in captivity. They require very large tanks (minimum 65 gallons) and consistently warm (78º–90°F) water to survive.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Before acquiring a Pacific Fat Sleeper, be sure to research its specific care requirements. Make sure that you are able to keep and maintain the large aquarium (~65 gallons) that this fish needs.

Health Threat Fair Choice

Does this animal pose a health risk to native wildlife, humans, livestock and agriculture?

Some Cause for Concern

Pacific Fat Sleepers can carry a variety of parasites that are harmful to humans. One particular parasite, Gnathostoma, causes severe illness in humans who eat infested fish. In some areas of Mexico, this parasite is a serious public health problem.

PetWatch Recommendation:

Due to the potential for disease transmission, always wash your hands after handling a fish or touching the aquarium water. Ask for proof of a clean bill of health and obtain a list of any medical treatments the fish has received.

EcoHealth Alliance works at the intersection of ecosystem, animal and human health through local conservation programs and develops global health solutions to emerging diseases.
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