Pearse's Mudskipper- Periopthalmus novemradiatus

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Part Number: 1668

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Introduction:

The Pearse's Mudskipper (Periophthalmus novemradiatus) is a fascinating amphibious fish known for its ability to live both in and out of the water. Native to the brackish tidal flats and mangroves of Southeast Asia, Pearse's Mudskippers are a favorite among aquarists who enjoy unique species with interesting behaviors. These small, active fish are known for their ability to "skip" across land and climb rocks using their strong pectoral fins. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about their natural habitat, aquarium setup, diet, and compatible tank mates.

1. Natural Habitat and Behavior of Pearse's Mudskipper

Natural Habitat: Pearse's Mudskippers are found in coastal regions, particularly in muddy tidal flats and mangrove areas where brackish water is common. They spend much of their time on land, foraging and basking, but retreat to shallow waters for moisture and protection. They are adapted to survive in environments where the water level fluctuates, making them one of the few fish species that thrive both in water and on land.
Behavior in Captivity: In captivity, Pearse's Mudskippers are highly active and curious, often seen climbing rocks, jumping between land and water, and defending small territories. They are known for their bold personalities and may interact with their owners during feeding. However, they can be territorial, especially towards other mudskippers, so providing adequate space and territory divisions is essential.

2. Ideal Tank Setup for Pearse's Mudskipper

Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a pair of Pearse's Mudskippers, but larger tanks of 30 gallons or more are ideal if housing multiple individuals. The tank should include both water and land areas (terrestrial setup) to replicate their natural habitat.
Substrate and Décor: Use a sandy or muddy substrate to mimic the natural environment of Pearse's Mudskippers. The tank should include plenty of rocks, driftwood, and sloping terrain to create dry land areas where the fish can climb and rest. Shallow water areas are essential, and the water should be brackish, with a salinity of around 1.005 to 1.015.
Water Conditions: Pearse's Mudskippers require brackish water with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5 and a temperature of 75°F to 82°F. It’s essential to provide good filtration to maintain water quality, as mudskippers can be messy eaters. However, avoid strong currents, as they prefer calm, shallow water.
Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal for Pearse's Mudskippers, as they enjoy basking on land. UV lighting may be beneficial, as it can mimic their natural exposure to sunlight and help promote healthy activity and coloration.

3. Diet and Feeding for Pearse's Mudskipper

Carnivorous Diet: In the wild, Pearse's Mudskippers are opportunistic carnivores, feeding on small insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. In captivity, they should be fed a high-protein diet.
Supplemental Foods: Offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small crickets. They will also accept high-quality carnivorous fish pellets or gel foods designed for carnivorous species.
Feeding Schedule: Feed your Pearse's Mudskippers once daily. It's important to scatter the food both on land and in shallow water, as they will hunt for their food in both environments.

4. Compatibility with Other Tank Inhabitants

Suitable Tank Mates: Pearse's Mudskippers are best housed in a species-only setup or with other similarly sized brackish species that won’t compete for territory. Other brackish fish, such as small gobies, archerfish, and mollies, may coexist if provided ample space and hiding areas.
Incompatible Species: Avoid keeping Pearse's Mudskippers with larger, aggressive fish that may outcompete or harm them. Additionally, they should not be housed with fully aquatic species that require deep water, as mudskippers need both land and water environments.
Territorial Considerations: Male Pearse's Mudskippers can be territorial, especially during breeding. If keeping more than one male, ensure there are enough hiding spots and territorial boundaries to reduce aggression.

5. Common Challenges and Tips for Keeping Pearse's Mudskipper

Tank Escape: Pearse's Mudskippers are excellent climbers and jumpers, so a secure lid is essential to prevent escape. Ensure there are no gaps where they can slip through, especially in tanks with rocks or branches near the edges.
Brackish Water Maintenance: Maintaining proper salinity in a brackish tank can be challenging. Regular water changes and salinity monitoring are crucial to keep your Pearse's Mudskippers healthy.
Aggression Among Males: If keeping multiple males, aggression can be an issue. To reduce stress and fighting, provide enough land areas and visual barriers, such as rocks and plants, to allow them to establish separate territories.

Conclusion:

The Pearse's Mudskipper (Periophthalmus novemradiatus) is a unique and engaging species that offers a one-of-a-kind aquarium experience. With their ability to live on both land and in water, they bring an element of the extraordinary to any brackish tank setup. While they require specialized care, including a semi-terrestrial environment and careful water maintenance, their active and inquisitive nature makes them a rewarding species to keep. If you're looking to add an adventurous, amphibious fish to your collection, the Pearse's Mudskipper is an exciting choice.

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