Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus)

The Climbing Perch (Anabas testudineus) is a unique species of fish known for its ability to survive out of water for extended periods and even climb trees using specialized structures on its gill covers. Native to freshwater habitats across Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Thailand, this species is highly adaptable and can thrive in various aquatic environments, from ponds and lakes to slow-moving rivers and flooded fields. Climbing Perch typically have a cylindrical body shape with a slightly flattened head and a distinctive coloration that ranges from olive-green to brown, often with darker markings or spots. They possess labyrinth organs, which allow them to breathe atmospheric air, enabling them to survive in oxygen-deprived or stagnant waters. This adaptation also facilitates their ability to migrate overland between bodies of water, including climbing small obstacles. In the wild, Climbing Perch feed on a diverse diet of insects, crustacea