Modestus Mudskipper

Periophthalmus modestus is a small to medium-sized mudskipper distributed through the tidal mangrove zones of Japan, Korea, China, and Southeast Asia. It is one of the most studied mudskipper species due to its accessibility in temperate East Asian intertidal zones. The body is grey-brown to olive with rows of pale blue iridescent spots and a moderately sized first dorsal fin that is raised during displays. It is smaller and generally less aggressive than P. kalolo or P. barbarus, making it one of the more tractable mudskipper species for the aquarium paludarium. In Japan it inhabits cool-temperate mudflats and can tolerate lower temperatures than tropical relatives, which can be an advantage for aquarists without access to intense heating systems. Males still display territorial behaviour but fighting is less intense than in larger species. A good entry point for mudskipper keeping.

Water: 20–28 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 10–25, KH 5–15; brackish to marine (SG 1.005–1.020); tolerates cool periods. Tank: 100 L minimum paludarium; sandy or muddy land area; damp substrate with low salinity splash zone; moderate humidity. Feeding: Carnivore; small crickets, earthworm pieces, bloodworm, freeze-dried shrimp; feeds on land and at water's edge. Breeding: Burrow spawner; not commonly bred in captivity. Compatibility: Less aggressive than larger mudskippers; can be kept in groups with sufficient territory per individual.