Have you ever thought that even fish can walk on land? You will be surprised to know that there is such A Fish In The World that can walk on land. The name of this fish is snakehead; as the name suggests, its head is like that of a snake. If this fish comes out of the water in search of food and someone who does not know about it sees it, it will seem like a bad dream. That’s why in today’s article, we will tell you everything about snakeheads that you did not know.
In 2017, a global digital database of snakehead fish species was created by scientists. As part of a collaborative initiative of 10 science institutes, the scientists identified the species of this fish. This fish is of freshwater. Before researchers created the database, it was believed that there were only 38 species in this class. But when their DNA level analysis was done, it was found that there are more than 38 species of this fish. The distinctive snout of this fish is similar to that of a snake, due to which it was named snakehead.
The species from snakehead fish can be found from the Middle East to East Asia, Central and West Africa, and the Nile region. Analysis of some data revealed that the eastern Himalayas and its adjoining region of Myanmar were once a hotspot of snakehead diversity. A new species of snakehead, ‘Channa’, was identified through barcoding. This species can also be seen in Assam, Bhutan, the foothills of Myanmar, and Congo. In India, also 15 subspecies of Channa can be seen. Snakehead is in high demand in domestic markets for food and decoration.
Species of snakehead
There are four known species of snakehead today, namely:
- Channa Bunkensis
- Channa Marulius
- Chana Striata
- Channa Gachua
All these species are found in different regions of the world. Channa Bunkensis in Indonesia and Malaysia and Channa marulius, Channa Striata, and Channa Gachua are found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Although the same name knows all these species, there are many species complexities, and due to the ambiguity in classification, its complete information is not available. Further information will still be needed to classify the species of snakeheads.
About The Fish
Currently, most species of snakeheads are classified as ‘Least Concern’ on the IUCN Red List. Snakeheads are members of the freshwater fish family Channidae. This fish is found in Africa and Asia. They breathe through gills, due to which they can cover some distance on land. Also, their two famous species are found in Asia (Channa) and Africa (Parchanna).
Snakehead is considered One Of The Invasive Species of fish. Also, this elongated and predatory fish is distinguished from other fish by its long dorsal fin, largemouth, and shiny teeth. Snailheads have gills and an organ located in their “gill arches” that helps them breathe oxygen. These fish come to the land in search of food. During this, they can flop on their wings for up to a quarter-mile. Snakehead has no natural aggressors, so the population of these species will continue to grow.
You must log in to post a comment.