Channa pulchra Care Guide
Channa pulchra is a small subtropical snakehead from western Myanmar, prized for orange flanks and kept singly in cool, oxygenated water.
Overview
Channa pulchra is a snakehead native to Myanmar, where it occurs in the Kyeintali Chaung stream basin of the Rakhine Yoma in the west of the country. It was first described in 2007 by Ralf Britz and is closely related to C. ornatipinnis and C. stiktos. The species has gained popularity as an aquarium fish.
Taxonomy
- Family: Channidae
- Genus: Channa
- Scientific name: Channa pulchra
- Described by: Britz, 2007
- Common name: Burmese Pumpkin Snakehead
Habitat
According to Wikipedia, the natural habitat consists of fast-flowing, clear, highly oxygenated and relatively cold (subtropical) streams. Sources report an ideal temperature of roughly 20-22 °C, with summer peaks around 25 °C tolerated as they occur seasonally; prolonged exposure to warmer water is linked to stress and bacterial infections.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Maximum size: 25-35 cm
- Temperature: 18-24 °C (64-75 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Keep singly; a tightly secured lid is essential as the species is a capable jumper
Diet
Channa pulchra is a carnivore. Snakeheads are predatory and in the aquarium accept meaty foods; feeding roughly once daily suits this species.
Compatibility
The species is highly territorial and is best kept on its own in a species tank. It swims in the middle of the water column and is described as a skilled jumper, so an escape-proof cover is required.
Breeding
Channa pulchra is a mouthbrooder. Breeding is considered advanced and is rarely accomplished in home aquaria.