Blue-spotted Snakehead

Channa cyanospilos is a larger snakehead from Sumatra and Borneo with a particularly striking juvenile colouration — the body is covered in vivid blue ocellated spots that give the species its name (cyanospilos = blue-spotted). These spots fade with maturity, transitioning to a more typical adult Channa pattern of brown and grey mottling.

Adults can exceed 35 cm and require appropriately large aquariums. Like all Channa, they are obligate air-breathers and highly predatory. Despite their size, they are often kept by dedicated snakehead enthusiasts who appreciate their intelligence and interactive behaviour.

Juvenile specimens are particularly desirable for their colouration and are most commonly available in the trade. The species is best maintained in a spacious species aquarium with very few decor items that could obstruct its movement.

Water: 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft to moderate — Sunda region water parameters. Tank: 300 L minimum for adults; extremely tight and weighted lid; robust filtration for messy feeders. Feeding: earthworms, shrimp, fish chunks, and frozen fish; train onto prepared foods early. Breeding: rarely bred in captivity due to size requirements. Compatibility: species-only; all similarly sized and smaller fish will be consumed.