Fin's Fish Guide
The Climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Anabantidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The climbing perch (Anabas testudineus) is an Asian labyrinth fish of the family Anabantidae, famous for its ability to move overland. The species has a stocky, olive-grey body with spiny fins and reaches about 25 cm. Thanks to an accessory breathing organ it can breathe air and survive out of water for a long time; using its gill covers, spines and fins it can crawl over moist ground to another pool. It inhabits canals, ponds, swamps, flooded fields and even estuaries. It is an omnivore feeding on plant matter and small invertebrates. The species is a valued food fish and is widely farmed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Climbing perch?
The Climbing perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Accessory breathing organ; can breathe air and move over land by crawling.
Where does the Climbing perch live?
The Climbing perch lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Widespread in fresh and brackish water of South and Southeast Asia.
How big does the Climbing perch get?
The Climbing perch grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Climbing perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Climbing perch is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Climbing perch edible?
Yes, the Climbing perch is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Anabas
More from the family Anabantidae
Want the complete picture on the Climbing perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Climbing perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.