Periophthalmus novaeguineaensis Eggert, 1935
New Guinea mudskipper
Periophthalmus novaeguineaensis
photo by Polgar, G.

Family:  Oxudercidae (Mudskippers), subfamily: Periophthalminae
Max. size:  8 cm SL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  demersal; freshwater; brackish
Distribution:  Asia and Oceania: Currently known from Australia and Indonesia.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 10-15; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-13; Anal spines: 1-1; Anal soft rays: 10-11. This species is distinguished by the following characters: D1 modally XI; D2 modally I,12; A modally I,11; caudal fin modally with 17 segmented rays; 71-110 lateral scales; 25-32 predorsal scales; inner rays of pelvic fin always united for more than three-quarters of their length; color of first dorsal fin red-brown or black, with broad, black submarginal stripe and white distal margin, the posterior edge concave, giving triangular shape to fin; color of second dorsal fin with whitish margin and one broad, black sub-marginal band and basal row of black spots; anal, pectoral, or caudal fins usually no markings, small brown spots or dusky pigment along length of fin or fin rays in some individuals; pelvic fin with prominent frenum and heavily pigmented on dorsal surface, with narrow, yellowish to whitish marginal band (Ref. 83599).
Biology:  An intertidal and amphibious air-breather (Ref. 31184) which inhabits brackish mangrove and nipa palm areas, sometimes enters the lower reaches of freshwater streams (Ref. 2847. 44894). Occurs in the margin of estuaries and tidal creeks (Ref. 44894). Actively shuttling back and forth between rock pools and air (Ref. 31184).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 17 February 2020 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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