Parachanna obscura – African Obscure Snakehead

Parachanna obscura – African Obscure Snakehead

Parachanna obscura was officially described in 1861 by Günther.

This species has already changed its genus name a few times. Current synonyms are: Ophiocephalus obscurus, Channa obscura, Channa obscurus, Ophicephalus obscurus, Paraphiocephalus obscurus, Parophiocephalus obscurus.

Description

These snakeheads are not difficult to keep. Since Parachanna obscura are not real swimmers, the aquarium can be relatively small for a pair. As a rule of thumb it can be assumed that the tank should be about 4 times the body length. They can reach a total length of about 35 centimetres. Furthermore, the water must be well filtered and 20% changed weekly. Parachanna obscura should be kept in an aquarium with a dark bottom, with lots of hiding places, and not too much light, otherwise, they will become very shy. The temperature should be in the higher regions, above 24 degrees Celsius, but preferably 26 degrees or more. They can only be combined with larger fish than themselves, but it should be noted that they should not be kept with very aggressive fish, as they may die themselves.

Young fish can be fed mosquito larvae, older Parachanna obscura sometimes accept replacement food, but often only coarse live food. Dewworms and fish are gladly accepted.

The sex difference is very difficult to see in these fish. Females often have a slightly thicker abdomen. The only way to get a sure pair is to wait for a pair of young African Obscure Snakehead to form a pair. Put a group of juveniles together and wait. As soon as they formed a pair, they will begin to terrorize the rest, and action must be taken quickly to get the remaining fish to safety.

Origin

The species is present almost throughout tropical Africa.

Breeding Parachanna obscura

During the mating season, the brown tones are replaced by strong blue spots, and the fins are marbled steel blue. After courtship and mating, 2000 to 3 000 large oily eggs are deposited and float to the surface. These hatch after 2-3 days at a temperature of 27 degrees Celsius. After another week, the fry swim free. Both parents defend the nest fanatically! It is not advisable to put your hands in the water after the animals have reproduced!!!!

Video

Author

Nederlandse Vereniging voor Labyrintvissen
Published in accordance with the board

Copyright images

Loury Cédric – CC BY-SA 4.0