Our Guide To Keeping Rainbow Snakehead Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Channa bleheri
- Common name: Rainbow Snakehead
- Family: Channidae
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Adult length: 30 to 50 cm
- Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
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Tank Setup:
- Rainbow Snakeheads prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 300L is recommended for a single adult fish.
- Provide ample hiding places and areas with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and floating plants like Water Lettuce.
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Water Parameters:
- Rainbow Snakeheads thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow.
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Diet:
- Rainbow Snakeheads are carnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a diet consisting of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods like small fish, shrimp, and insects.
- Supplement their diet with occasional treats like earthworms or mealworms to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Rainbow Snakeheads are predatory and should be kept alone or with large, robust tank mates that cannot be consumed.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Rainbow Snakeheads are solitary and aggressive towards other fish, including conspecifics. They are best kept alone in a species-only tank.
- Avoid keeping them with smaller or more docile species that may become prey.