Splendid Snakehead - Channa lucius

Species name: Channa lucius

Synonym: Ophicephalus lucius; Ophiocephalus polylepis; Ophiocephalus bistriatus; Ophiocephalus bivittatus

Common name: Splendid Snakehead

Family: Channidae

Order: Perciformes

Class: Actinopterygii

Maximum size: 40 cm / 16 inches

Environment: freshwater

Origin: Channa lucius (Splendid Snakehead) is found in rivers inf southeastern Sumatra and the Kapuas basin of western Kalimantan

Temperament: Aggressive

Company: Channa lucius (Splendid Snakehead) should not be kept in aquariums smaller than 2/3 of the species size.

Water parameters: Temperature 22-28˚C / 72-82˚ F; pH 5.5-6

Aquarium setup: Channa lucius (Splendid Snakehead) is best kept in a pond or a large aquarium. The aquarium or pond should be decorated so that there are large open areas and a few hiding places. Plants are only necessary if you want to breed the species. They need to have access to the surface to survive.


Feeding: Channa lucius (Splendid Snakehead) will accept most meaty food.

Breeding: Channa lucius (Splendid Snakehead) builds nest from plant part and both parents guard the eggs and young.

Picture of Splendid Snakehead - Channa lucius. Copyright www.jjphoto.dk

Channa lucius - Splendid Snakehead. Copyright www.jjphoto.dk

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