Fin's Fish Guide
The African snakehead (Parachanna africana) is a freshwater fish of the family Channidae that grows up to 32 cm.
Description
The African snakehead is a snakehead fish of the family Channidae from West Africa. The species grows to about 32 cm and has an elongate, brown-blotched body with a flattened, snake-like head, a large mouth and long dorsal and anal fins. It inhabits swamps, pools, ditches and slow-flowing waters, and has an air-breathing organ with which it survives in oxygen-poor water and can move over land for short periods. As a predator it hunts fishes, amphibians, insects and crustaceans. The parents fiercely guard the eggs and young. The sharp teeth can give a nasty bite when handling; otherwise the species is a local food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African snakehead?
The African snakehead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Air-breathing organ to survive in oxygen-poor water and to crawl over land; the parents fiercely guard the juveniles.
Where does the African snakehead live?
The African snakehead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; swamps, pools, ditches and slow-flowing waters.
How big does the African snakehead get?
The African snakehead grows to a maximum of about 32 cm.
Is the African snakehead dangerous to humans?
No, the African snakehead is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; handle a caught specimen with care and keep fingers away from the mouth. Clean any bite wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the African snakehead edible?
Yes, the African snakehead is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Parachanna
More from the family Channidae
Want the complete picture on the African snakehead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African snakehead is one of 12,519 species in the app.