Description
Malabar Snakehead Channa Diplogramma
- Care Level: Moderate
- Tank Size: 88 Gal (400 Ltr) min
- Temperament: Aggressive
- PH: 6 – 8
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- Flow: Moderate
What We Like About This Fish:
- Rare
- Beautiful Markings
- Stunning Colouration
- Impressive, but manageable size
The Malabar snakehead Channa diplogramma is one of the most enigmatic and least understood species within the family Channidae. Since its description from Peninsular India in 1865, it has remained a taxonomic puzzle with many researchers questioning its validity, based on its striking similarity with the South East Asian C. micropeltes. in a study, it was assessed the identity of the Malabar snakehead, C. diplogramma, using morphological and molecular genetic analyses, and also evaluated its phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary biogeography.
They get their name mainly from the fact that their heads have a snake-like appearance, but it may also have something to do with their sharp teeth. They are one of the few social species of the Channidae family and as juveniles they will swim together in schools as well as hunt together when mature.
Snakeheads have an accessory respiratory organ, which allows them to breathe outside of the water for a long time.
Snakeheads will need a strong, tight-fitting lid on their aquarium as they will sometimes jump or get carried away while hunting live fish.
Species specific aquariums are recommended as they are highly predatory and aggressive; although they can coexist with a few of the largest cichlids (Gars are usually a safe bet), large catfish, and various large Plecos. Tank mates should be chosen carefully and should comparable in size as adults.
Snakeheads are ferocious, predatory carnivores and mainly eat massive amounts of live fish, but also eat frogs, insects and crayfish in the wild. In the aquarium they should be fed a constant supply of live fish, but they will also accept live earth worms, frogs, crickets, and dry foods.
