Channa orientalis Care Guide
Channa orientalis is a small Sri Lankan snakehead lacking pelvic fins, living in shaded streams and brooding eggs in the mouth.
Overview
Channa orientalis, the Ceylon snakehead, was described by Bloch and Schneider in 1801. It is one of the smallest members of its family and is endemic to south-western Sri Lanka. The species lacks pelvic fins, a feature that distinguishes it from related snakeheads.
Taxonomy
- Family: Channidae
- Genus: Channa
- Scientific name: Channa orientalis
- Described by: Bloch & Schneider, 1801
- Common name: Walking Snakehead
Habitat
According to Wikipedia, the species is found in freshwater habitats, typically shaded streams, in south-western Sri Lanka. Using accessory respiratory organs it can survive on land for more than four days during wet weather.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Maximum size: about 10 cm SL (Wikipedia); KB range 17-22 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
- Provide a secured lid; the species can move over land
Diet
According to Wikipedia, Channa orientalis feeds on plankton, insects and sometimes small amphibians. It is a carnivore in the aquarium.
Compatibility
The species is semi-aggressive and is less aggressive than most Channa. It swims in the middle of the tank and may be kept as a conspecific pair; avoid keeping it with fish small enough to be eaten.
Breeding
According to Wikipedia, Channa orientalis is a mouthbrooder: the male carries the eggs while the female guards the territory, and the fry remain with the male until they can fend for themselves.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable, according to Wikipedia.