Zebra Snakehead

Channa andrao is a recently described dwarf snakehead from West Bengal in northeast India, discovered only in 2013 and named in honour of ichthyologist Jayaram Andrao. Its extraordinary blue and orange colouration makes it one of the most coveted snakehead species among specialist freshwater hobbyists. It is a cool-water species requiring lower temperatures than most tropical fish and is best kept as a pair in a dedicated species aquarium.

Water: 18-24°C, pH 6.5-7.5, soft to moderately hard; cool water essential — warmer water shortens lifespan. Tank: Minimum 100L, heavily planted with floating cover, driftwood, absolutely gapless lid. Feeding: Carnivore; live insects, earthworms, frozen bloodworm, small prawns; reluctant to accept pellets. Behaviour: Aggressive toward conspecifics and similar-shaped fish; pairs bond strongly. Compatibility: Species tank recommended; experienced keepers only.