Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf Snakehead
IntermediateChanna gachua
A small snakehead ranging from Afghanistan to Indonesia. Colour varies greatly between populations, and the fins carry red or blue margins. It is a mouthbrooder and is bred regularly in captivity.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
18〜28℃
Lifespan
5-8 years
Size
15-20cm
Diet
Frozen bloodworm, earthworms, chopped prawn and fish
About
Channa gachua is a channid ranging from Afghanistan through South and Central Asia to Indonesia. FishBase records 32.9cm total length and Seriously Fish 15-20cm standard length. Seriously Fish regards it as a complex of similar-looking species, and colour and markings differ markedly between populations. Recommended conditions are 18-28C, pH 5.0-8.0 and 1-20dGH with a 120 x 45cm base, about 243 litres. Populations from colder regions such as northern India need a cool winter period. It breathes air, so leave a gap above the water, and always use a tight cover because snakeheads escape readily. It is a mouthbrooder bred regularly in aquaria, but mixing populations risks hybridisation.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Dwarf Snakehead
The Dwarf Snakehead lives 5-8 years.
Size of the Dwarf Snakehead
The Dwarf Snakehead grows to 15-20cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Dwarf Snakehead
The ideal temperature for the Dwarf Snakehead is 18〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South and Southeast Asia (Afghanistan to Indonesia)
Lifespan
5-8 years
Size
15-20cm
Care Specifications
- pH
- 5–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 1–20 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 18–28℃
- Min. Tank
- 243 L
Semi-aggressivePairBreeding: Moderate
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Dwarf Snakehead Listings
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