Boddart's Mudskipper

Boleophthalmus boddarti is one of the largest mudskipper species, inhabiting tidal mudflats and mangrove channels across the Indo-Pacific from India to Southeast Asia. Unlike Periophthalmus species, it is more herbivorous and feeds on algae and microorganisms it scrapes from the mud surface. Its brilliant blue-spotted dorsal fin is used in elaborate territorial display dances.

Water: 25–30 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, specific gravity 1.005–1.015; soft-mud paludarium setup. Tank: 300 L minimum; large, expansive mud bank is essential; the fish spends most time on land. Feeding: Herbivorous/detritivore in the wild; accepts algae wafers, soft vegetables, and spirulina flake. Behaviour: Uses elaborate dorsal fin displays for territory; less aggressive than Periophthalmus but still territorial. Compatibility: Species tank or very large brackish paludarium with non-competing species.