Fin's Fish Guide
The Small snakehead (Channa asiatica) is a freshwater fish of the family Channidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Central and southern China (as far as the Yangtze), Hainan, Hong Kong and northern Vietnam; quiet streams and pools.
Description
The small snakehead is a snakehead (Channidae) from East Asia, including southern China. The species grows to about 23 cm and has an elongate, dark body with a flattened, snake-like head and a large mouth full of sharp teeth; it lacks pelvic fins. It inhabits calm streams and pools in a subtropical to temperate climate. With an accessory breathing organ it can breathe air and so survive in oxygen-poor water. As a predator it hunts crustaceans, insect larvae and fishes. The sharp teeth can give a nasty bite; otherwise it is not venomous.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Small snakehead?
The Small snakehead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Air-breathing predator without pelvic fins; sharp teeth, snake-like head.
Where does the Small snakehead live?
The Small snakehead lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and southern China (as far as the Yangtze), Hainan, Hong Kong and northern Vietnam; quiet streams and pools.
How big does the Small snakehead get?
The Small snakehead grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Small snakehead dangerous to humans?
No, the Small snakehead is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the large mouth with 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 Small snakehead edible?
Yes, the Small snakehead is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Channa
More from the family Channidae
Want the complete picture on the Small snakehead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Small snakehead is one of 12,519 species in the app.