Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant mudskipper (Periophthalmodon schlosseri) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Gobiidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
The giant mudskipper is the largest mudskipper (Gobiidae) and occurs in the mangroves and estuaries of Southeast Asia. The species reaches about 27 cm and has eyes set high on the head and muscular pectoral fins with which it 'walks' and jumps over the mud. It is amphibious and breathes air; at low tide on sunny days the fish leaves its mud burrow to forage on crabs, shrimps, insects and small fishes. The species is markedly territorial and defends its burrow fiercely. It tolerates fresh, brackish and salt water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant mudskipper?
The Giant mudskipper has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Amphibious air-breather that walks and jumps over the mud; highly territorial and lives in mud burrows.
Where does the Giant mudskipper live?
The Giant mudskipper lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific, in mangroves and estuaries of Southeast Asia.
How big does the Giant mudskipper get?
The Giant mudskipper grows to a maximum of about 27 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Giant mudskipper dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant mudskipper is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant mudskipper edible?
The Giant mudskipper is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Periophthalmodon
More from the family Gobiidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant mudskipper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant mudskipper is one of 12,519 species in the app.