Incredibly versatile fish which can live on land and overpowers native species 'may be headed for Australia'

An aggressive species of fish which can survive on land for up to six days, and chokes its predators to death if eaten, has been caught on camera making its way across a sandy plain.

Experts fear it may be headed for Australia, after overrunning two islands on the stretch of ocean between the mainland and Papua New Guinea.

Known as the climbing perch, the freshwater fish is incredibly versatile.As well as a special organ which allows it to breath air comfortably, it can tolerate exposure to salt water - and if swallowed alive, it can swell up to choke or starve the predator to death.

Scientists in Australia are now monitoring the species' movements in earnest, after it began spreading south from Papua New Guinea.

It has already overrun two small islands in the Torres Strait, and experts are concerned its aggressiveness and adaptability could spell trouble if it manages to makes its way to mainland Australia.

The climbing perch overtakes an area by dragging itself between water holes, then systematically overpowering the native species.

It can also hibernate in mud for up to six months - and its ability to withstand saltwater, which is toxic to most freshwater fish, could ease its passage over the sea.

A team of scientists at James Cook University in Queensland, Australia - which would be the first place hit - are now studying the fish's habits in the hope of finding a way to eradicate them if they do make it across.