Northern snakehead

Northern Snakehead

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Northern snakehead in water

The northern snakehead (Channa argus) is a species of freshwater fish in the family Channidae, native to parts of China, Russia, and Korea. It is known for its elongated body, large mouth, and sharp teeth, resembling a snake, which is how it gets its name. The northern snakehead is a top predator in its native habitat and has become an invasive species in several countries, including the United States.

Description

The northern snakehead can grow up to 85 cm (33 inches) in length and weigh up to 7 kg (15 pounds). It has a long, cylindrical body with a flattened head and a large mouth filled with sharp teeth. The coloration of the northern snakehead is generally brown with dark blotches, which provides camouflage in its natural habitat.

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Close-up of northern snakehead

Habitat and Distribution

The northern snakehead is native to the freshwater systems of eastern Asia, particularly in the Amur River basin, which spans parts of China and Russia. It prefers stagnant or slow-moving waters such as ponds, swamps, and slow streams. The species is highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of aquatic environments.

Behavior

Northern snakeheads are known for their aggressive predatory behavior. They feed on a wide range of prey, including other fish, crustaceans, and amphibians. The species is also capable of breathing air, allowing it to survive in low-oxygen environments and even move short distances on land.

Reproduction

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Northern snakehead with fry

Northern snakeheads are prolific breeders. They spawn multiple times a year, with females laying thousands of eggs per spawning event. The eggs are buoyant and hatch within a few days. The fry are guarded by the parents until they are capable of fending for themselves.

Invasive Species

The northern snakehead has become an invasive species in several regions outside its native range, including the United States. It was first discovered in the U.S. in 2002 in a pond in Maryland. Since then, it has been found in several states, including Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York.

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Northern snakehead in shallow water

The introduction of northern snakeheads to non-native environments poses a significant threat to local ecosystems. As a top predator, they can outcompete native species for food and habitat, leading to declines in native fish populations.

Control and Management

Efforts to control the spread of northern snakeheads include public awareness campaigns, fishing regulations, and physical removal from affected water bodies. In some areas, chemical treatments have been used to eradicate populations.

Related Pages

• Invasive species
• Freshwater fish
• Channidae

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Illustration of northern snakehead