Common name: Ward's pipefish

General information

The Blue-spotted Mudskipper, Hippichthys cyanospilos, is a fascinating species that thrives in mangrove ecosystems and mudflats. This fish is known for its unique ability to walk on land using its pectoral fins, which makes it a captivating addition to any brackish water aquarium. The species is characterized by its striking blue spots and playful behavior.

Mudskippers are amphibious fish, and the Blue-spotted Mudskipper is no exception. It can breathe through its skin and the lining of its mouth and throat, which must be kept moist to facilitate this gas exchange. This adaptation allows it to spend a significant amount of time out of water, where it forages for food and interacts with other mudskippers.

Care

Blue-spotted Mudskippers require an aquarium setup that mimics their natural habitat. A brackish water tank with a mix of land and water areas is essential. The land area should consist of mud or fine sand where the mudskipper can burrow and stay moist. The water section should be shallow and well-oxygenated.

These mudskippers are not demanding when it comes to diet; they will readily accept a variety of live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and insect larvae. It's important to ensure that food is accessible on both land and water sections of the tank.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue-spotted Mudskippers are known to be territorial during the breeding season. Males will establish and defend territories where they attract females with their elaborate courtship displays. In captivity, breeding can be challenging, but providing the right environment with separate territories can encourage natural behavior.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Blue-spotted Mudskipper includes the coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific, from India to the Philippines, and north to China. They are commonly found in areas with soft substrates like mudflats and mangrove forests, where they can easily burrow and find food.