Dwarf snakehead
📖 Overview
Occurs mostly in lotic waters such as streams and rivers, also in lentic habitats such as pools and ditches in the lowlands. This species is usually associated with submerged roots, leaf debris and marginal vegetation during daytime, with adults solitary or occurring as pairs. At night, individuals can be more easily observed in open waters. It occurs even in highly modified habitats such as concretized drains and canals in urban areas. Highest elevation recorded for this species was ca. 700 m asl at Lunugala, but it has also been reported it from Diyatalawa, ca 1200 m asl. Reported from southern peninsular India from east-fowing drainages .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 31 - 35; Anal soft rays: 19 - 23; Vertebrae: 39 - 42. This species is distinguished from other members of the Gachua group by the following characters: with pelvic fin; lateral head profle pointed anteriorly; pectoral fin of adults usually with 2-4 (rarely 5 or 6) brown concentric bands; lateral-line scales 38-43; scales in transverse line on body 5-½5+1+6½; circumpeduncular scales 24-28; D 31-35; A 19-23; vertebrae 39-42 .Cross section: circular.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Dwarf snakehead is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Dwarf snakehead is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Dwarf snakehead is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Channa Kelaartii is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Dwarf snakehead is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Dwarf snakehead has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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