Explained: How this fish can stay alive in mud for months without water

The natural world is full of extraordinary creatures, each with unique abilities that allow them to adapt to their environment. Among these is a species that has captivated scientists and nature enthusiasts alike with its remarkable survival technique. The suckermouth catfish, a dweller of tropical freshwater environments, is known for its resilience and adaptability, particularly its ability to survive in conditions that would be inhospitable to other fish.
In June 2022, a video surfaced on the internet, showcasing the revival of what appeared to be a mummified suckermouth catfish with just a splash of water. The footage, which quickly went viral, was evidence of the catfish’s incredible survival strategy. It can endure prolonged periods under dried, hardened mud, effectively in a state of suspended animation, until the return of rain rehydrates its environment
Native to the rivers and tributaries of South America, the suckermouth catfish, or pleco, is equipped with specialized organs that enable it to breathe air. This adaptation is crucial during the dry season when water levels can drop significantly, leaving aquatic habitats parched. When faced with such challenging conditions, the pleco can enter a state of dormancy, similar to hibernation, which allows it to survive for extended periods without water.

The pleco’s ability to endure out of water is facilitated by its accessory breathing organ, akin to a gill cavity, which permits the fish to extract oxygen from the air. This organ is a marvel of evolutionary biology, allowing the pleco to survive up to 30 hours on land as long as its skin remains moist. The fish achieves this by burrowing into the mud, creating a protective cocoon that preserves moisture and allows for air exchange. Researchers have noted that while remarkable, this capability is not unique to the pleco; the African lungfish is another species known to survive out of water for extended periods, thanks to similar physiological adaptations
This survival strategy is not only a display of the pleco’s individual prowess but also a reflection of the species’ overall robustness. The pleco’s resilience has enabled it to become a successful invasive species in various parts of the world, where it can often be found in environments that have been altered by human activity. In some regions, the pleco has been known to survive in dried-up riverbeds, waiting for the return of the rainy season to rehydrate and resume its aquatic life.
The pleco’s remarkable ability to survive without water has garnered attention not only for its biological interest but also for its implications in understanding how species can adapt to changing environments. As climate change continues to alter ecosystems worldwide, the pleco’s survival mechanism may offer insights into how other species might cope with increasingly extreme conditions.
While the pleco’s capacity to live in a zombie-like state without water is certainly impressive, it also raises questions about the impact of such species on native ecosystems. As humans continue to influence natural habitats, the spread of resilient species like the pleco could have unforeseen consequences on biodiversity and ecological balance.