Malabar Snakehead – Channa Diplogramma – Freshwater Fish

Malabar Snakehead – Channa Diplogramma – Freshwater Fish

Short Description:
The Malabar Snakehead, scientifically known as Channa Diplogramma, is a fascinating freshwater fish that offers a unique addition to any aquarium. With its striking appearance and interesting behavioral traits, this fish is sure to captivate any fish enthusiast.

Product Categories:
Channa, Fish

Secure Transit:
We understand the importance of ensuring the safe arrival of your fish. That’s why we offer a 24-hour courier service that utilizes poly boxes and heat packs during colder months. These measures help maintain the optimal temperature and protect the fish during transit, ensuring they arrive in excellent condition.

Shipping Convenience:
To make your shopping experience more convenient, we provide the option to combine multiple items in one order. This helps streamline the shipping process, saving you time and effort.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy:
While we take every precaution to ensure the health and well-being of our fish during transit, unforeseen circumstances may occur. If any fish arrives deceased, we have a Dead on Arrival (DOA) policy in place. Simply inform us promptly with photographic evidence, and we will either refund you or send you a replacement fish.

Product Description:

Scientific and Common Names:
The Malabar Snakehead, also known as Channa Diplogramma, is a species of freshwater fish native to the rivers and lakes of India.

Habitat:
In the wild, these fish inhabit slow-moving or stagnant waters, such as swamps, ponds, and flooded fields. They prefer areas with dense vegetation and submerged logs or branches.

Tank Setup:
To provide a suitable environment for the Malabar Snakehead, a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 50 gallons is recommended. The tank should be well-filtered and have ample hiding spots, such as caves or plants. It is important to maintain a stable water temperature between 75°F and 85°F (24°C – 29°C) and a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5.

Diet and Nutrition:
The Malabar Snakehead is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small fish, insects, crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish.

Size and Growth Rate:
These fish can reach a maximum size of around 12 inches (30 cm) in length. The growth rate of the Malabar Snakehead is relatively fast, and they can reach a size of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) within the first year.

Behavioral Traits:
The Malabar Snakehead is known for its aggressive and territorial nature. They are solitary fish and should be kept alone or with other large, robust species. They have a unique ability to breathe air using a specialized labyrinth organ, allowing them to survive in oxygen-deprived waters.

Care Level:
Due to their aggressive nature and specific care requirements, the Malabar Snakehead is recommended for experienced fishkeepers. They require regular maintenance of water quality, proper feeding, and a suitable tank setup to thrive.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding the Malabar Snakehead in captivity can be challenging. They are mouthbrooders, with the male incubating the eggs in his mouth until they hatch. Providing suitable breeding conditions, such as a separate breeding tank with appropriate water parameters, can increase the chances of successful reproduction.

Health and Disease Prevention:
To ensure the health of your Malabar Snakehead, it is crucial to maintain optimal water conditions, perform regular water changes, and provide a balanced diet. Monitoring for signs of disease, such as abnormal behavior, loss of appetite, or physical abnormalities, is essential. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
The Malabar Snakehead thrives in water with a temperature range of 75°F to 85°F (24°C – 29°C) and a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. They prefer soft to moderately hard water with a dGH (general hardness) of 5-15.

Lifespan:
With proper care and a suitable environment, the Malabar Snakehead can live for approximately 8-10 years in captivity.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– The Malabar Snakehead is known for its ability to survive out of water for short periods, thanks to its labyrinth organ.
– They have a unique hunting technique, using their elongated body to ambush prey.
– These fish have a distinctive appearance, with a dark brown or black body covered in irregular white or yellow spots.
– The Malabar Snakehead is highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, making it a hardy species.

In conclusion, the Malabar Snakehead – Channa Diplogramma – is a captivating freshwater fish that offers a unique addition to any aquarium. With its striking appearance, interesting behavioral traits, and specific care requirements, this fish is best suited for experienced fishkeepers. By providing the optimal tank setup, diet, and water conditions, you can enjoy the beauty and fascinating nature of the Malabar Snakehead for years to come.