Fin's Fish Guide
The Atlantic mudskipper (Periophthalmus barbarus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 15 cm.
West Africa and the eastern Atlantic coast, in mangroves, on mudflats and in estuaries of the intertidal zone; lives in brackish water.
Description
The Atlantic mudskipper is a remarkable amphibious goby of the family Oxudercidae reaching about 15 cm. The brown, blue-speckled fish has bulging eyes set high on the head and muscular pectoral fins with which it 'walks' and skips over exposed mud as if on little legs. At low tide it stays active on the flats: it breathes partly through the skin and mouth cavity and holds water in its gills. The species lives in mangroves, on tidal flats and in estuaries of the tidal zone along the West African coast, in brackish water. It hunts insects, crabs, shrimp, worms and other bottom animals. The male digs a Y-shaped burrow in which the eggs are guarded.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Atlantic mudskipper?
The Atlantic mudskipper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Amphibious small goby with bulging eyes set high on the head; 'walks' and jumps over drying mud on its pectoral fins and can breathe through its skin.
Where does the Atlantic mudskipper live?
The Atlantic mudskipper lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa and the eastern Atlantic coast, in mangroves, on mudflats and in estuaries of the intertidal zone; lives in brackish water.
How big does the Atlantic mudskipper get?
The Atlantic mudskipper grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Atlantic mudskipper dangerous to humans?
No, the Atlantic mudskipper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Atlantic mudskipper edible?
The Atlantic mudskipper is rarely eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Periophthalmus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Atlantic mudskipper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Atlantic mudskipper is one of 12,519 species in the app.