Our Guide To Keeping Peacock Snakehead Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Channa pulchra
   • Common name: Peacock Snakehead
   • Family: Channidae
   • Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
   • Adult length: 25-30 cm
   • Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Peacock Snakeheads prefer a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places. A minimum tank size of 200L is recommended for an adult pair.
   • Provide a substrate of sand or fine gravel, along with plenty of rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation to create a natural environment.
   • Ensure the tank is well-covered, as these fish are known to jump.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Peacock Snakeheads thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).
   • These fish prefer soft to moderately hard water.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Peacock Snakeheads are carnivores and will accept a variety of meaty foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of live or frozen foods like earthworms, small fish, and shrimp.
   • They can also be fed high-quality pellet food formulated for carnivorous fish.

6. Tank mates:

   • Peacock Snakeheads can be territorial, especially during breeding, so they are best kept in a species-only tank or with robust, similarly-sized fish that can stand their ground.
   • Avoid keeping them with small, peaceful community fish as they may be seen as prey.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Peacock Snakeheads are generally solitary and may become aggressive towards other fish, particularly other snakeheads.
   • They are known for their interesting behaviors and can be very interactive with their owners.