Mudskipper is a fish known for its ability to survive out of the water. Most fishes quickly suffocate out of water, but mudskippers have been known to survive for hours and even days on land. Mudskippers live in and around areas of high and low tides. During low tides, the parts of the sea bottom closer to shore are exposed to the air. The name mudskipper refers to the movement of the fish while it moves about out of the water. Using its pectoral (shoulder) fins and tail, the fish moves through a series of small skips. There are many species (kinds) of mudskippers.
The mudskipper has a long, muscular tail and strong pectoral fins. It has large eyeballs on top of its blunt head. This arrangement enables the fish to peek above the surface of the water, exposing only its eyes to watch for predators (hunting animals) on land or in the air. The fish usually grows between 3 and 10 inches (8 and 25 centimeters) long.
Most mudskippers live in the southwestern Pacific Ocean region. One species is found in the waters of western Africa. The fish are usually found in mangrove forests, mudflats, and riverbanks. The fish dig burrows, which provide protection from predators. The burrows also serve as nests, where the fish lay their eggs. Mudskippers are eaten by a variety of animals, including birds, lizards, and otters. Most mudskippers feed on crabs, insects, marine worms, small fish, shrimp, and squid. Some kinds of mudskippers eat mainly algae.
Mudskippers have several adaptations that enable them to survive on land. The chambers that enclose the gills can remain tightly sealed and filled with water. This feature enables the gills to operate normally on land. However, the water within the chambers must be replaced frequently, as it becomes low in oxygen. For this reason, mudskippers do not travel far from small tidal pools or other bodies of water. In addition, mudskippers are able to absorb some oxygen through their moist skin and mouth.
