Periophthalmus is a genus of small, highly specialized fishes belonging to the family Gobiidae, commonly known as mudskippers. These fascinating creatures are specifically adapted for a partially terrestrial lifestyle, distinguishing them from other fish species. The name "periophthalmus" is derived from the Greek words "peri," meaning around or about, and "ophthalmos," which translates to eye. This nomenclature is reflective of the unique anatomical feature possessed by mudskippers – their bulging, prominent, and movable eyes situated on the top of their heads.
Mudskippers are primarily found in tropical and subtropical mangrove forests, estuaries, and intertidal zones across Asia, Africa, and Australia. Their semi-terrestrial nature allows them to venture onto land, utilizing their pectoral fins to propel themselves and hop or crawl in a manner resembling a frog or lizard. They possess a robust, elongated body with strong and muscular pectoral fins, which aid in their locomotion both in water and on land.
The ability to breathe atmospheric air through specialized gills and their modified vascular structures enables mudskippers to survive in oxygen-deprived, shallow mudflats during low tide. They obtain oxygen by exposing their gills to air, and their ability to breathe both underwater and in the air sets them apart from other fish species.
In terms of diet, periophthalmus predominantly feeds on small invertebrates such as insects, worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and even plant material. Their distinctive anatomy, including a protrusible mouth and downward-facing eyes, assists in catching prey while skimming the surface or sifting through the mud.
Due to their unique adaptation and behavior, periophthalmus serves as
