Channa Cobra Snakehead, also known as the Cobra Snakehead or Haruan Merah, is an intriguing species of predatory freshwater fish that captivates with its distinctive appearance and hunting behavior. Native to Southeast Asia, including countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, the Channa Cobra Snakehead is known for its unique features and adaptability. Let's explore a detailed description of these captivating fish, including essential information on water conditions, tank mates, feeding habits, and care.

Appearance:

• Unique Pattern: Channa Cobra Snakehead showcases a pattern resembling the markings of a cobra, with alternating black and white stripes or spots along its body.
• Body Shape: They have a long, cylindrical body shape with a broad head and large eyes that contribute to their predatory nature.
• Size: Channa Cobra Snakeheads can grow to a size of approximately 16 to 20 inches (40 to 50 cm), making them suitable for larger aquariums.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain a tropical water temperature range of 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) for the well-being of Channa Cobra 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 soft to moderately hard water condition with a hardness level between 5 and 15 dGH.
• Filtration: Efficient filtration and regular water changes are necessary to maintain excellent water quality.

Tank Mates:

• Solitary Fish: Channa Cobra Snakeheads are predatory and territorial, making them best suited for solitary setups without tank mates. They may exhibit aggression towards other fish, especially smaller ones.

Feeding Habit:

• Carnivorous Diet: Channa Cobra Snakeheads are voracious carnivores and prefer live or frozen meaty foods.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Offer a variety of live or frozen foods such as feeder fish, shrimp, crayfish, worms, and small crustaceans to fulfill their dietary needs.

Care:

• Tank Size: Provide a spacious aquarium of at least 75 gallons (284 liters) to accommodate Channa Cobra Snakeheads comfortably, allowing ample swimming space and territories.
• Aquascape: Create a well-decorated tank with hiding spots, rocks, and driftwood to mimic their natural habitat and provide areas for them to explore and establish territories.
• Water Quality: Regularly monitor water parameters and perform routine water changes to maintain excellent water quality.
• Lighting: Provide moderate to subdued lighting levels, as Channa Cobra Snakeheads prefer dimly lit environments.