Fin's Fish Guide
The Gangetic mudskipper (Boleophthalmus dussumieri) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The Gangetic mudskipper is a mudskipper (Oxudercidae) from tidal and mangrove areas of the northern Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. The species grows to about 19 cm and has an elongate, blue-grey speckled body with high-set, bulging eyes. At low tide it crawls and skips over the exposed mud with its pectoral fins, breathes air through its skin and grazes diatoms and algae from the mud. It digs burrows as shelter. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gangetic mudskipper?
The Gangetic mudskipper has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly blue and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Gangetic mudskipper live?
The Gangetic mudskipper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: India, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan
How big does the Gangetic mudskipper get?
The Gangetic mudskipper grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Gangetic mudskipper dangerous to humans?
No, the Gangetic mudskipper 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.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Boleophthalmus
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Gangetic mudskipper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gangetic mudskipper is one of 12,519 species in the app.