Fin's Fish Guide
The Barred mudskipper (Periophthalmus argentilineatus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The silverlined mudskipper is a remarkable goby of the family Gobiidae from the Indo-West Pacific, famous for its amphibious way of life. The species grows to about 19 cm and has a brownish body with fine silvery lines and bulging eyes set high on the head. It lives in the intertidal zone of mangroves and mudflats, where at low tide it is active out of water: with its muscular pectoral fins it 'skips' and crawls over the mud, and it breathes air through the skin and gill chamber. It defends a fixed territory and keeps returning to it. As a hunter it catches insects, crustaceans and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Barred mudskipper?
The Barred mudskipper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Amphibious mudskipper that moves over the mud on its pectoral fins and breathes air; defends a fixed territory.
Where does the Barred mudskipper live?
The Barred mudskipper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; intertidal zone of mangroves and mudflats.
How big does the Barred mudskipper get?
The Barred mudskipper grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Barred mudskipper dangerous to humans?
No, the Barred mudskipper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Barred mudskipper edible?
The Barred mudskipper is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Barred mudskipper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred mudskipper is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Periophthalmus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Barred mudskipper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Barred mudskipper is one of 12,519 species in the app.