Thailand is home to a fish that can walk on land!

Thailand’s Amphibious Wonder: Meet the Fish That Can Walk on Land!

When you think of Thailand, your mind might conjure images of vibrant street markets, golden temples, lush jungles, and crystal-clear beaches. But did you know that this Southeast Asian paradise is also home to a truly bizarre and fascinating creature—a fish that can walk on land?

Say Hello to the Mudskipper

One of the most curious residents of Thailand’s coastal mangroves and mudflats is the mudskipper, a remarkable amphibious fish known for its ability to leave the water and move about on land. With bulging eyes, a wide mouth, and pectoral fins that act like limbs, the mudskipper looks like something straight out of a science fiction movie. But it’s 100% real—and it’s thriving in Thailand.

Not Your Average Fish

Unlike typical fish that rely solely on gills to breathe underwater, mudskippers are adapted for life both in and out of the water. They can breathe through their skin and the lining of their mouth and throat—a method known as cutaneous respiration—as long as they stay moist. This ability allows them to spend hours out of the water, especially during low tide when they crawl across mudflats in search of food or to defend their territory.

Their fins aren’t just for swimming—they use them to “walk” across the muddy terrain. It’s more of a hop and slide motion, but it’s walking by fish standards! Some species can even climb trees and low-hanging mangrove roots.

Why Do They Walk?

The mudskipper's amphibious antics serve multiple purposes. On land, they can forage for algae and small invertebrates without much competition from other fish. Being mobile on land also helps them escape aquatic predators and establish burrows in the soft mud, which they use for shelter and breeding.

Where to See Them in Thailand

If you want to witness this quirky fish in action, head to Thailand’s coastal regions, especially areas with extensive mangrove forests. Places like the Bang Pu Nature Reserve near Bangkok or Krabi’s mangrove trails offer prime viewing opportunities. Just time your visit with low tide, when mudskippers are most active.

Nature's Little Reminder

The mudskipper is more than just a fun fact or a viral video subject. It’s a living testament to nature’s creativity and adaptability. These little fish show us that life can evolve in incredible ways to survive and thrive in the harshest of environments.

So next time you’re exploring Thailand’s natural wonders, keep your eyes peeled for these tiny, land-walking oddities. They’re just one of many reasons this country is a treasure trove for wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.