Leopard snakehead
📖 Overview
Leopard snakehead (Channa pardalis), first described by Knight, 2016 is a small fish in the family Channidae (order Anabantiformes). Adults typically reach 14.10 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Temperate waters. It feeds on a mix of small fish and invertebrates as a mid-level predator. The species is important as a food fish. 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): 36 - 37; Anal soft rays: 24 - 25; Vertebrae: 45. Channa pardalis is distinguished from all congeners by having the following characters: a unique color pattern consisting of numerous large black spots on the post-orbital region of the head, opercle and body; a broad white and black margin to the dorsal fin, anal fin and caudal fin; dorsal fin with 36-37 rays; anal fin with 24-25 rays; 44-45 pored scales on the body and two scales on the caudal fin base; 4½ scales above lateral line and 6½ scales below lateral line; 45 vertebrae and the palatine with two rows of teeth (outer row with numerous minute teeth and inner row with short, stout inward curved teeth) .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Leopard snakehead is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Temperate
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Channa Pardalis 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 Leopard snakehead is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Leopard 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)
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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