The name "walking fish" refers to this creature's habit of walking while under water. They are fascinating creatures that look like miniature prehistoric cartoon-like monsters. Walking fish are salamanders and go through the same larval stage as other salamander species, eventually undergoing metamorphosis (similar to a tadpole changing into a frog), developing into air breathing, land dwelling creatures later on. Also, walking fish do well in captivity and are often kept as pets.

Unfortunately, the Mexican walking fish is threatened with extinction because of habitat destruction and water pollution.