Peacock Snakehead - Channa pulchra Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Peacock Snakeheads (Channa pulchra) are classified as a relatively small species within the Snakehead family. It is imperative to separate all other individuals once a pair has formed, as these fish display intolerance towards the presence of additional specimens. Due to their precise water requirements and intrinsically aggressive nature, these fish are considered unsuitable for inexperienced aquarium enthusiasts.
When maintaining a group of Peacock Snakeheads, including young individuals, a considerably spacious aquarium is necessary, complete with ample hiding places such as driftwood and rocky caves. Adequate water movement within the aquarium is also crucial.
This species exhibits highly territorial and aggressive behaviour, often resulting in severe aggression among conspecifics. In their natural habitat, each individual establishes its own territory centred around an exclusive rock formation.
There have been reports suggesting favourable compatibility of Peacock Snakeheads with other robust fish species, provided that a pair has not already formed. However, it is vital that these companion species can tolerate fluctuations in temperature, as temperature drops are necessary for maintaining optimal health. Prolonged exposure to tropical temperatures can lead to colour fading and increase susceptibility to potentially lethal bacterial infections.
To prevent escape, a tightly secured lid is essential, as Peacock Snakeheads are skilled jumpers. However, a small gap should be intentionally left between the water surface and the cover slides to allow the fish access to humid air above.
Using a tall aquarium with reduced water levels significantly reduces the likelihood of jumping while providing adequate surface cover and facilitating the natural regulation of dissolved waste. Incorporating floating plant species as surface cover can also create suitable conditions for breeding.
Peacock Snakeheads exhibit a greyish body adorned with numerous black dots and orange patches. The head is similarly patterned with black dots but lacks the orange patches. The pectoral fins typically feature four semicircular white bands, while the dorsal fin may display one or more anterior black blotches, although, in rare instances, these may be absent.
Peacock Snakehead Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Peacock Snakeheads can present a considerable challenge. Nevertheless, males are characterized by sleeker body profiles in comparison to females, as well as exhibiting more vibrant colouration.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Channa pulchra |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2007 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Anabantiformes |
| Family | Channidae |
| Genus | Channa |
| Origins | Myanmar |
| Max Size | 25 cm |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Carnivore |
| Reproduction | Bubble Nester |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| ℉ | 68 - 77 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 25 |
Natural Habitat
Peacock Snakeheads are indigenous to Kyeintali Chaung, situated in southern Rakhine State within Western Myanmar, Southeast Asia. These fish primarily inhabit small rocky streams characterized by rapid water flow, clarity, abundant oxygenation, and relatively low temperatures. Notably, these streams exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations in both water flow and temperature.
Breeding
Peacock Snakeheads exhibit monogamous breeding behaviour and have successfully been bred within domestic aquarium settings. During the breeding process, these fish engage in an embracing behaviour reminiscent of many anabantids.
The male assumes responsibility for gathering the floating eggs and either deposit them into a surface nest or transfers them to a cave where they continue to float, akin to certain species of Betta.
Both parents actively care for the fry, transitioning to free-swimming status a few days later. During this period, the mobile offspring are protected by both parents, who demonstrate tolerance towards their young until the subsequent breeding season.
Diet & Feeding
In its natural habitat, the Peacock Snakehead primarily relies on a diet consisting of smaller fish and insects. However, when maintained in captive environments, they demonstrate a notable ability to adapt to consuming non-living alternative food sources. It is important to emphasize that while some individuals may accept dried foods, they should not constitute the primary component of their diet.
For juvenile Peacock Snakeheads, appropriate food options include bloodworms, small earthworms, chopped prawns, and similar offerings. As these fish mature into adulthood, their diet can consist of fish flesh strips, whole prawns, mussels, live River Shrimp, and larger earthworms.
Refraining from feeding these fish with beef heart or chicken is crucial, as they lack the metabolic capacity to effectively process the lipids present in such food items. This can lead to the accumulation of excessive fat deposits and potential degeneration of organs.
Moreover, using "feeder" fish, such as Livebearers or small Goldfish, is not beneficial unless these prey items have undergone proper conditioning beforehand, as they do not provide significant nutritional value to the Peacock Snakeheads.
