Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted snakehead (Channa punctata) is a brackish-water fish of the family Channidae that grows up to 31 cm.
South and Southeast Asia; ponds, swamps, ditches and slow-flowing waters.
Description
The spotted snakehead is a snakehead fish of the family Channidae from South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 31 cm and has an elongate, brownish body with a flattened, snake-like head, a large mouth and long dorsal and anal fins. It inhabits ponds, swamps, ditches and slow-flowing waters, including brackish water, 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 valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted snakehead?
The Spotted snakehead has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Air-breathing organ to survive in oxygen-poor water and to crawl over land; the parents fiercely guard the juveniles.
Where does the Spotted snakehead live?
The Spotted snakehead lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South and Southeast Asia; ponds, swamps, ditches and slow-flowing waters.
How big does the Spotted snakehead get?
The Spotted snakehead grows to a maximum of about 31 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Spotted snakehead dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted 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 Spotted snakehead edible?
Yes, the Spotted snakehead is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Channa
More from the family Channidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted snakehead?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted snakehead is one of 12,519 species in the app.