On a mudflat, a small fish can move in the open air instead of being trapped in the water. The Atlantic periophthalm belongs to these amphibious fish whose way of life seems to contradict the expression “like a fish out of the water”.
The Aquarium of the Pacific explains that it can absorb oxygen through its skin and through the mucous membranes of its mouth and throat. His movements out of the water complete this adaptation. However, it must remain in a humid environment: leaving the water does not mean becoming independent of any humidity.
Its young begin with a planktonic period before the survivors reach the tidal coastal zone. So the story does not tell of a fish suddenly transformed into a terrestrial animal. It shows an existence at the border of two environments, where a fin and wet skin open unexpected possibilities.
What we know
Amphibious fish dependent on a humid environment; “walking” describes its movements, not mammalian legs.
To go to the source
References consulted on September 21, 2026. Linked pages may be in another language.
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