Got a photo? Identify fish instantly with the Fishby app.
Open the appDescription
The Australian Mudskipper (Periophthalmus australis) is a fascinating amphibious fish belonging to the family Oxudercidae. It is well-adapted to intertidal environments, exhibiting unique physiological and behavioral traits that allow it to spend significant time out of water. These fish are characterized by their prominent, independently rotatable eyes, strong pectoral fins modified for terrestrial locomotion, and the ability to breathe through their skin and buccal lining when on land. They are highly territorial and exhibit complex social behaviors, including elaborate courtship rituals and parental care.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- Dorsal surface typically mottled brown, grey, or olive-green, providing camouflage against mud and mangrove roots. Ventral surface lighter, often whitish or pale grey. Fins may have darker bands or spots. Coloration can vary slightly based on habitat and mood.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- terminal
- Distinctive features
- Large, bulbous, independently rotatable eyes positioned dorsally on the head, allowing for a wide field of vision above water., Strong, muscular pectoral fins that act as 'crutches' for terrestrial locomotion., Dorsal fins are prominent; the first dorsal fin is typically taller and more pointed, often with a dark margin., Ability to breathe through skin and buccal lining out of water., Possession of a gular fold that can hold water, keeping gills moist.
- Dorsal fin
- Two distinct dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin (D1) has 10-15 spines, is often tall and sail-like, especially in males during display. The second dorsal fin (D2) has 1 spine and 10-13 soft rays, is lower and longer.
- Tail fin
- Rounded to slightly emarginate caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Large, muscular, and highly mobile, adapted for 'walking' on land. They have a fleshy base.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are fused into a disc-like structure, often used for adhesion to surfaces or as an additional support during terrestrial movement.
Identification Tips
Eyes
Look for large, protruding, independently movable eyes on top of the head, characteristic of mudskippers.
Pectoral Fins
Observe the strong, muscular pectoral fins used for 'walking' on land, distinguishing them from typical fish fins.
Dorsal Fins
Note the two distinct dorsal fins; the first is often taller and more pointed, especially in males.
Coloration
Mottled brown/grey/olive coloration helps them blend into muddy environments.
Behavior
Their amphibious nature, spending significant time out of water, is a key identifier.
Habitat
- Water type
- brackish
- Depth
- Intertidal zone, typically in very shallow water or on exposed mudflats.
- Environment
- Mangrove forests, tidal mudflats, estuaries, and coastal swamps. They prefer soft, muddy substrates with ample vegetation for shelter and foraging.
- Geographic range
- Northern Australia, specifically along the coastlines of Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. Its range extends into parts of Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: advanced
- Temperament: territorial
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 75 gallons (280 liters) for a single specimen, larger for groups
- Temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F)
- pH level: 7.5-8.5
- Hardness: 10-25 dGH
- Compatibility: Best kept in a species-specific paludarium. Can be housed with other mudskipper species of similar size if ample territory is provided, but aggression is common. Not suitable for typical community aquariums.
- Special requirements: Requires a paludarium setup with both aquatic and terrestrial areas. The land area should consist of fine sand or mud to allow burrowing. High humidity and excellent filtration are crucial. A tight-fitting lid is essential as they are excellent jumpers. Brackish water conditions are mandatory.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeding typically occurs during warmer months, often coinciding with tidal cycles and lunar phases. Activity levels are generally higher during low tide when they forage on exposed mudflats.
- Market price: Moderate to high for the aquarium trade, depending on size and availability.
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Not typically consumed.
- Texture: Not typically consumed.
- Nutritional value: No significant culinary value or nutritional data available due to lack of consumption.
Key Facts
Amphibious Lifestylebehavior
Australian Mudskippers are truly amphibious, spending more time out of water than in it, using their modified pectoral fins to 'walk' and 'skip' across mudflats.
Skin Breathingamazing
They can breathe through their skin and the lining of their mouth and throat, allowing them to absorb oxygen directly from the air when on land, provided their skin remains moist.
Territorial Displaysbehavior
Males engage in elaborate territorial displays, including raising their dorsal fins, head-bobbing, and 'push-ups' to ward off rivals and attract mates.
Burrow Dwellersbehavior
Mudskippers construct intricate burrows in the mud, which serve as refuges from predators, high tides, and extreme temperatures, and are also used for spawning.
Independent Eye Movementamazing
Their eyes can move independently, providing a wide field of vision and allowing them to scan for both predators and prey simultaneously.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: While not venomous, mudskippers can deliver a painful bite if handled carelessly, especially larger specimens. They are also very agile and can jump, so caution should be exercised to prevent escape. Minimize handling to reduce stress.
Similar Species
Giant Mudskipper
Periophthalmodon schlosseri
P. schlosseri is generally much larger (up to 27 cm TL), has a more robust body, and typically possesses a single, continuous dorsal fin (though sometimes deeply notched) or two very close-set dorsal fins. P. australis has two clearly separated dorsal fins and is smaller.
Barred Mudskipper
Periophthalmus argentilineatus
P. argentilineatus often has distinct dark bars or stripes on its flanks and a more pointed snout. Its first dorsal fin usually has a black margin with a white submarginal band. P. australis typically has a more mottled pattern and a less pronounced barring, and its first dorsal fin coloration differs.
Gold-spotted Mudskipper
Periophthalmus chrysospilos
P. chrysospilos is characterized by numerous small, iridescent blue or gold spots on its body and fins. P. australis lacks these prominent spots.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gobiiformes
- Family
- Oxudercidae
- Genus
- Periophthalmus
- Species
- Periophthalmus australis
Explore Australian Mudskipper
Identify fish anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo identification, full species details, and more.