Blackspotted snakehead
📖 Overview
Blackspotted snakehead (Channa panaw), first described by Musikasinthorn, 1998 is a medium-sized fish in the family Channidae (order Anabantiformes). Adults typically reach 17.10 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Channidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 32 - 35; Anal soft rays: 23 - 24; Vertebrae: 39 - 41. One large scale on each side of the lower jaw (rarely 2 on one side); pelvic fin length always more than 50% of pectoral fin length; and 7-12 irregular black blotches on the upper half of body.: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Blackspotted snakehead is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical known only from the Irrawaddy and Sittang river basins in Myanmar.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Channa Panaw 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 Blackspotted snakehead is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Blackspotted snakehead has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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