Atlantic Mudskipper

Periophthalmus barbarus is the most widely available mudskipper in the aquarium trade and the species most hobbyists encounter when exploring these extraordinary amphibious gobies. Native to the mangrove swamps, tidal mudflats, and estuaries of West and Central Africa from Senegal to Angola, it spends the majority of its time out of water, breathing through its moist skin and the lining of its mouth and gill chambers. Males are highly territorial and engage in spectacular leaping and fin-flaring displays to establish hierarchy on the mudflat. The body is olive to brown-grey with scattered blue iridescent spots and a sail-like first dorsal fin that is raised during display. In the aquarium it requires a specialised vivarium-style 'paludarium' setup with a large, accessible land area of damp sand or mud, warm brackish water, and high humidity. Not suitable for conventional aquariums.

Water: 24–30 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–25, KH 5–15; brackish water (SG 1.005–1.015) essential; very high ambient humidity. Tank: 120 L minimum paludarium; large exposed muddy land area, mangrove roots or branches to climb; warm water section at one end. Feeding: Carnivore; live or frozen crickets, bloodworms, earthworm pieces, freeze-dried shrimp; feeds best on land. Breeding: Burrow spawner; male guards eggs in air pocket underground; rarely achieved in captivity. Compatibility: Species-only or with robust brackish fish; extremely territorial with conspecifics; needs visual barriers.