Channa bleheri, commonly known as the Rainbow Snakehead or Bleher's Snakehead, is a fascinating and captivating freshwater fish that adds a touch of vibrancy and intrigue to any aquarium. With its vibrant colors and unique behavior, Channa bleheri is a popular choice among aquarists who seek an eye-catching and engaging fish for their tanks. Originating from the Western Ghats region of India, these snakeheads are known for their peaceful nature, labyrinth organ, and their ability to breathe air, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen environments. Let's explore a detailed description of these remarkable fish, including essential information on their appearance, water conditions, tank setup, feeding habits, and care.

Appearance:

• Striking Coloration: Channa bleheri displays a stunning combination of vibrant colors, including shades of red, orange, and yellow on its body, with striking black markings, making them visually captivating and stand out in the aquarium.
• Size: They are relatively small snakeheads, reaching an adult length of around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in captivity.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain a tropical water temperature range of 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) to ensure the well-being of Rainbow Snakeheads.
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 to replicate their natural habitat.
• Water Hardness: Provide a moderately soft to moderately hard water with a hardness level between 5 and 15 dGH.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: Channa bleheri can be kept in a medium-sized tank of at least 30 gallons (114 liters) due to their small to medium size.
• Aquascape: Create a well-decorated environment with live plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat and offer hiding spots.
• Cover the Tank: Snakeheads are known to jump, so ensure the tank has a secure lid or cover to prevent escape.

Feeding Habit:

• Carnivorous Diet: Channa bleheri is a carnivore and prefers a diet of live foods.
• Live Foods: Offer live foods such as small fish, insects, worms, and shrimp as their primary diet.
• Frozen and Prepared Foods: They may accept high-quality frozen and prepared foods, but live foods are often preferred.

Care:

• Peaceful Nature: Channa bleheri is generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish species.
• Solitary Tendency: They can be kept individually or in a pair, as they may display territorial behavior towards other snakeheads.
• Observation: Monitor their behavior and appearance to ensure they are healthy and showing no signs of stress or illness.