What is a "mudskipper"?

A mudskipper is a unique amphibious fish that belongs to the family Gobiidae. They are known for their ability to move on land and breathe air. With their specialized fins and muscular bodies, mudskippers are well adapted to living in intertidal zones where they encounter both land and water. These small fish can be found in tropical and subtropical regions, typically in muddy or sandy habitats near mangroves or mudflats. Mudskippers use their pectoral fins to "skip" or "walk" across the substrate, allowing them to explore both the land and water for food and shelter. They have a unique respiratory system that enables them to breathe air through their skin and the lining of their mouth. Mudskippers are also known for their ability to climb vegetation and even construct burrows in the mud.