Snakehead (fish)

The snakeheads are members of the freshwater perciform fish family Channidae, native to parts of Africa and Asia. These elongated, predatory fish are distinguished by their long dorsal fins, large mouths, and shiny teeth.

Description

Snakeheads belong to the freshwater perciform fish family Channidae. They are native to parts of Africa and Asia. These elongated, predatory fish are characterized by long dorsal fins, large mouths, shiny teeth, ability to breathe air with gills which allows them to migrate short distances over land and suprabranchial organs, primitive forms of labyrinth organs that develop as they grow older.

Size

Various snakehead species differ significantly in size. Dwarf snakeheads (e.g., Channa orientalis) stay under 25 cm (10 in). Most other snakeheads range from 30 to 90 cm (12 to 35 in). Some species (C. argus, C. barca, C. marulius, C. micropeltes, and C. striata) can reach 1 m (3 ft 3 in) or more.

Diet

As juveniles, snakeheads consume plankton, aquatic insects, and molluscs. As adults, they primarily feed on other fish (like carp) or frogs. In rare cases, they may even eat small rodents like rats.

History

Snakeheads have a rich fossil record, dating back at least 50 million years. They likely originated in the south Himalayan region of the Indian subcontinent. Over time, they spread into Eurasia, Africa, and East Asia.

Ecological concerns

Snakeheads can become invasive species when introduced to areas where they are not native. Their lack of natural enemies makes them apex predators, causing ecological damage. People sometimes release pet snakeheads into ponds, lakes, and rivers, exacerbating the invasive issue.

References

1. https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-are-snakeheads
2. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/indexnowdelete/ar-BB1nMd4E?ocid=BingNewsSearch
3. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/rare-snake-like-fish-that-breathes-air-caught-in-missouri-for-fourth-time-aggressive-predators/ar-BB1nyRBs?ocid=BingNewsSearch
4. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/a-fish-that-can-breathe-air-and-walk-on-land-spotted-twice-in-missouri-in-2-weeks/ar-BB1nPKrY?ocid=BingNewsSearch
5. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/rare-snake-like-fish-that-breathes-air-caught-in-missouri-for-fourth-time-aggressive-predators/ar-BB1nyRBs?ocid=BingNewsSearch