Mudskipper of the Sundarbans 

Among the many fascinating creatures of the Sundarbans, the mudskipper stands out as a truly unique marvel of evolution. Often seen skipping across muddy banks during low tide, mudskippers are a type of amphibious fish capable of breathing through their skin and the lining of their mouth and throat. What makes them extraordinary is their ability to live both in water and on land—an adaptation that helps them thrive in the intertidal zones of the Sundarbans mangrove ecosystem. With bulging eyes perched on top of their heads and strong pectoral fins that act like limbs, mudskippers can “walk” and even leap several inches above the mudflats in search of food or to defend their territory.

Mudskippers play an important ecological role in the Sundarbans. As burrowers, they help aerate the mud, which supports nutrient cycling and benefits mangrove root systems. These fish feed on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus, contributing to the food chain and maintaining ecological balance. Their presence is an indicator of the health of the mangrove environment. During your eco-tour with Rupantar Ecotourism Ltd., keep an eye on the muddy banks during low tide - these quirky, energetic creatures are a delightful sight for nature enthusiasts and a testament to the rich biodiversity of the world’s largest mangrove forest.