Pinball fish mainly rely on algae, invertebrates and organic matter in the sediments of offshore waters for food. In order to avoid losing water at low tide, the ability to breathe out of water and the ability to jump and move have evolved.

Pinball fish is a small fish that lives in coastal mudflats, and likes to live in areas where salt water and fresh water alternate, such as estuaries, mudflats and mangroves. Mud-wrapped fish are relatively weak and struggle to survive near the tidal line.