Calendar 2026 Frogs - Frogs

Periophthalmus novemradiatus - The Indian mudskipperOrigin & habitatThe Indian mudskipper (Periophthalmus novemradiatus) originates from the coastal regions of South Asia, particularly India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Its favourite habitat is mangrove forests, brackish water zones, muddy estuaries and intertidal zones. Here it finds ideal conditions to live between water and land.AppearanceThis unusual fish has an elongated, scale-covered body, which is usually grey-brownish in colour and can be covered with small, shimmering spots. Particularly striking are its protruding eyes, which sit high up on the head and can be moved independently of each other - a perfect adaptation to life outside the water. Males also have a more conspicuous dorsal fin, which they raise for courtship.SizePeriophthalmus novemradiatus is one of the smaller mudskipper species. Adults reach a length of around 6 to 10 centimetres.Life expectancyIn suitable husbandry or under natural conditions, an Indian mudskipper can live for around 3 to 5 years. Factors such as water quality, diet and habitat play an important role here.LifestyleThe Indian mudskipper is diurnal and semi-aquatic, which means that it spends most of its time out of the water. Thanks to its powerful pectoral fins, it can "jump" and move on wet mud. It uses both its gills and a special skin respiration system to breathe as long as the skin remains moist. Mudskippers are territorial and can be quite aggressive towards conspecifics.Unique characteristicsAmphibious lifestyle: One of the few fish that can actively move around on land.Eyes like a chameleon: Their eyes can rotate independently of one another – a great advantage for navigation and hunting prey.Jumping & Climbing: Despite their small size, they can jump surprisingly far and even climb roots or stones.Skin and mucous membrane respiration: Like amphibians, the mudskipper can also absorb oxygen through its moist skin and the mucous membranes in its mouth and throat. However, this epidermal respiration only works as long as the skin is well moistened – which is why the mudskipper relies on a humid environment or frequent periods in the water.Keeping in a paludariumA paludarium - a combination of aquarium and terrarium - is ideal for keeping the Indian mudskipper in a species-appropriate way. This should offer both a water area and sufficient land area with a moist, muddy or sandy substrate.SetupLand area: At least half of the paludarium should consist of dry, slightly damp sand on which the animals can walk and jump. Fine aquarium sand or a clay-sand mixture works well.Aquarium section: Shallow and warm (24–28°C), with slightly brackish water (salinity approx. 5–15 g/L), as the animals originate from brackish water zones.Hiding places & climbing opportunities: Roots, stones or mangrove roots provide shelter and climbing opportunities.Plants: Saltwater-tolerant plants or artificial alternatives can be used – a robust setup is important, as the fish dig.TidesA particularly natural paludarium offers a simulated ebb and flow of the tide. This can be controlled using pumps or a timer: At high tide, the water area fills slowly and provides access for swimming. At low tide, the water level drops and more land becomes accessible. This corresponds to the natural behaviour of the animals and significantly stimulates their activity.General conditionsLighting: Daylight simulation with UV components is recommended.Humidity: High, ideally between 70–90%.Cover: The paludarium should be well covered, as mudskippers are excellent climbers and can escape quickly.Created with ChatGPT – revised by Zoo Roco