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(YA) Mudskipper (Periophthalmus spp.)

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Description

Description

Mudskipper (Periophthalmus spp.)

📌 Basic Info

  • Scientific Name: Periophthalmus spp. (several species, most common in the hobby: Periophthalmus barbarus, P. argentilineatus)

  • Common Names: Mudskipper, Amphibious Goby

  • Family: Gobiidae (Gobies)

  • Origin: Coastal mudflats, mangroves, and estuaries of Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia

  • Size: 4 – 10 inches (10 – 25 cm), depending on species

  • Lifespan: 5 – 10 years in captivity

  • Tank Zone: Semi-terrestrial – spends time both in water and on land

🌊 Water Parameters

  • TDS: 200 – 400 ppm

  • pH: 7.0 – 8.5

  • Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)

  • Hardness: 8 – 20 dGH

  • Salinity: Brackish water required (SG 1.005 – 1.015)

🐟 Characteristics

  • Unique amphibious fish that can climb rocks, burrow in mud, and walk on land using its pectoral fins.

  • Large, protruding eyes on top of the head that can move independently.

  • Can breathe through both gills and skin (must stay moist to survive).

  • Highly territorial, especially males – often display by raising dorsal fins and jumping.

  • Known for their “skipping” and hopping movements across land.

🍽️ Food

  • Type: Carnivorous.

  • Diet: Live/frozen foods – bloodworms, brine shrimp, mealworms, small crickets, chopped earthworms. May also take sinking pellets designed for carnivores.

  • Feeding Schedule: Feed small portions 1–2 times daily.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

  • Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum for a small group (species-dependent).

  • Aquascape: Must provide both land and shallow brackish water areas.

  • Substrate: Mud-like sand, soft for burrowing.

  • Decor: Mangrove roots, rocks, and driftwood for climbing and basking.

  • Filtration: Gentle flow; brackish water should remain clean and stable.

  • Lighting: Moderate to bright; basking spots mimic natural habitat.

  • Water Change: 25% weekly; brackish balance must be maintained.

  • Lid: Strong, tight-fitting lid – mudskippers are excellent climbers and jumpers.

👥 Social Behavior

  • Active and curious but territorial, especially males.

  • Can be kept in groups if the tank is large and has enough land areas to establish territories.

  • Best housed with other brackish, non-aggressive species (archerfish, mollies, monos, scats).

  • Avoid aggressive fish or those that may outcompete them for land/water space.

✅ Do’s

  • Provide both land and shallow water zones.

  • Keep water brackish – freshwater is unsuitable.

  • Offer live and meaty foods for best health.

  • Maintain a secure, moist environment to prevent drying out.

❌ Don’ts

  • Don’t keep in freshwater long-term.

  • Don’t overcrowd – territorial fights will happen.

  • Don’t allow tank to dry out – they must stay moist.

⭐ Quick Tips

  • One of the most unusual aquarium pets, half fish, half land-dweller.

  • Needs a specialized brackish paludarium-style tank.

  • Great for experienced aquarists looking for a unique showpiece species.