Orangespotted snakehead
📖 Overview
Orangespotted snakehead (Channa pseudomarulius), first described by Günther, 1861 is a large fish in the family Channidae (order Anabantiformes). Adults typically reach 57.80 cm in maximum length and up to 1.400 kg. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. Diet is predominantly piscivorous, targeting other fish and larger prey. 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): 47 - 50; Anal soft rays: 29 - 33; Vertebrae: 55. Channa pseudomarulius is distinguished from C. marulius by having fewer lateral line scales (59-61 vs. 63-65), fewer dorsal-fin rays (47-50 vs. 52-56) and anal-fin rays (29-33 vs. 33-37) and fewer vertebrae (55 vs 59-63), and by a shorter body/longer head especially in specimens over 20.0 cm SL .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Orangespotted snakehead is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Channa Pseudomarulius 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 Orangespotted snakehead is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Orangespotted 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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