How to Identify African Snakehead

To identify African Snakehead (Parachanna obscura), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

The body is typically dark brown to olive green dorsally, fading to a lighter, often yellowish or whitish belly. Distinctive dark, irregular blotches or bands are present along the flanks, which can vary in intensity. A prominent dark spot, often ocellated (ringed with a lighter color), is usually present at the base of the caudal fin. The fins are generally dark, sometimes with lighter margins.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated, snake-like body, Large, protractile mouth with sharp teeth, Long dorsal and anal fins without spines, Accessory breathing organ (suprabranchial organ) allowing air breathing, Large scales on the head, resembling snake scales, Ocellated spot at the caudal fin base

Dorsal fin

Long, extending from behind the pectoral fins almost to the caudal fin, with 40-45 soft rays. No spines.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate.

Pectoral fin

Relatively small and rounded, positioned low on the body.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is also long, similar in length to the dorsal fin, with 26-30 soft rays. Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape and Fins

   Look for the elongated, cylindrical body and the very long dorsal and anal fins that lack spines. The caudal fin is typically rounded.

2. 2

   Head and Mouth

   Observe the large, flattened head with large scales and a prominent, wide mouth equipped with numerous sharp teeth.

3. 3

   Coloration and Markings

   Note the dark, irregular blotches on the flanks and the characteristic ocellated spot at the base of the caudal fin. The overall color is usually dark brown to olive.

4. 4

   Air Breathing

   If observed in its natural habitat or an aquarium, watch for it surfacing to gulp air, a clear indicator of a snakehead species.

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