Emperor Snakehead – Channa Marulioides – Thai Fish Species
Species: Channa marulioides.
Common name: Emperor Snakehead, Dark-fin Snakehead, Flower Snakehead, Toman Bunga. Thai Name: Pla Chon kha luang.
Distribution: Native to Southeast Asia, found in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sumatra, Borneo (Kalimantan), Cambodia. Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Singapore although it may not be very common there.
Habitat: Primarily inhabits freshwater habitats. Can be found in slow-moving or still sections of rivers and streams. The species can also be found in freshwater lakes, in some regions, they have adapted to living in reservoirs created by damming rivers. Man-made or natural ponds are suitable habitats for the Emperor Snakehead. Can also thrive in swampy and marshy areas, especially those with slow-moving or standing water. These habitats often have ample vegetation and prey items. During the wet season, when rivers and floodplains expand, they may venture into flooded areas where they can find ample food and shelter. Returning to the permanent water bodies in the dry season. Like other Snakehead species, it can survive the dry season by burrowing in bottom mud of swamps, lakes and canals. As long as their skin and air-breathing apparatus remain moist, they can subsist on their stored fat.
Emperor Snakehead (Channa marulioides)
Emperor Snakehead (Channa marulioides)Are a striking and predatory fish species belonging to the Channidae family and is known for its distinctive appearance and aggressive hunting behavior. They are known for their ambush hunting strategy, lurking in cover and striking at unsuspecting prey.
They have elongated, cylindrical bodies with a prominent head and large mouth. The body tapers toward the tail, which aids in rapid swimming. They have a dorsal fin that extends along much of their back, a continuous anal fin, and a long, pointed tail fin. Their pectoral and pelvic fins are relatively small. These fish are known for their striking coloration, adults exist in a variety of colors and patterns, depending on locality. The most common in Thailand, are brownish base / gold color with a series of dark, chevron-like markings on each side. With small white spots on their dark ventral and dorsal fins, as well on the tail. They have a white belly and forward-facing reddish eyes. Emperor Snakehead are generally solitary and territorial. They can be aggressive towards other fish, especially when defending their territory or during the breeding season.
Like all Snakehead species, Emperor Snakehead have a specialized respiratory system that allows them to breathe air. They possess a labyrinth organ, which enables them to extract oxygen from the air when oxygen levels in the water are low. This adaptation allows them to survive in environments with poor water quality. They have been introduced to non-native regions in some cases, where they have become invasive species. Their adaptability, aggressive behavior, and high reproductive rate can negatively impact local ecosystems. Overall, the species is a remarkable and visually striking fish, with unique adaptations for survival in aquatic environments. Making it an intriguing subject for both researchers and aquarium enthusiasts.
Lifespan and Size
The lifespan of an Emperor Snakehead can vary depending on various factors, including its environment, food availability, and overall health. In the wild, they typically have a lifespan of around 5 to 7 years, although some individuals may live longer under favorable conditions. In captivity, where they are provided with stable and well-maintained conditions, including appropriate water quality, temperature, and nutrition, they can potentially live longer than their wild counterparts. Some well-cared-for individuals have been reported to live up to 10 years or more in aquariums.
The size can vary depending on its age, environmental conditions, and overall health. These fish can grow to a significant size, making them one of the larger species among the snakehead family. Adult Emperor Snakehead can grow to lengths ranging from 20 to 30 inches (50 to 75 centimeters) on average. However, some individuals can exceed these measurements, reaching lengths of up to 36 inches (approximately 90 centimeters) or more under optimal conditions. A 2kg specimen is a trophy catch! The present world record is 3.95 kg (8 lb. 11 oz). Caught in the waters of Sungai Pejing, Maran, Pahang, Malaysia, on September 20, 2009.
Diet
The Emperor Snakehead is a carnivorous predator with a diverse diet. These fish are opportunistic feeders, and their diet primarily consists of a variety of aquatic organisms. Crustaceans, such as shrimp and crayfish, are a common food source. Amphibians, including frogs and tadpoles, are occasionally on the menu. Insects, such as dragonfly larvae, aquatic insects, and insect larvae, are also part of their diet. They are known to forage for insects near the water’s surface. Fish also make up a significant portion of the diet. They often prey on smaller fish in their habitat.
Depending on availability, they may consume other aquatic organisms like small crabs, mollusks. While less common, there have been reports of larger Emperor Snakehead preying on small mammals and birds that come close to the water’s edge. Emperor Snakehead are opportunistic and will consume whatever prey is readily available in their habitat. Their hunting strategy often involves lying in wait, concealed among aquatic vegetation or submerged structures, and then striking swiftly to capture their prey.
Emperor Snakehead Breeding Timeline
Breeding behavior of the Emperor Snakehead follows a relatively specific pattern, with some variations depending on local environmental conditions and habitat availability. They are known to exhibit seasonal breeding behavior, often triggered by the onset of the rainy season. In many Southeast Asian regions, this species is more likely to breed during periods of increased rainfall and rising water levels. The rainy season provides suitable conditions for spawning and nurturing young fry. As the water levels rise, they search for suitable breeding sites. These sites are typically in shallow, vegetated areas near the shore of rivers, lakes, ponds, or swamps. The presence of aquatic vegetation is crucial as it provides shelter and protection for their offspring.
Like other snakehead species, the species often engage in courtship rituals before spawning. Males and females may engage in displays, such as circling, nudging, and fin-flaring, to establish their readiness to breed. Pairs form, and both males and females play active roles in the breeding process. The female Emperor Snakehead typically lays a batch of adhesive eggs in a nest made of water plant materials and small pieces of dead branches / leaf. She may deposit hundreds to thousands of eggs in a single nest, depending on her size and age. Both male and female are known to provide parental care for their eggs and fry. The male often guards the nest and fans water over the eggs to provide oxygen and prevent fungal growth. The female may also participate in guarding duties.
Hatching
After a period of incubation, which can last several days the eggs hatch, and the young fry emerge. The parents continue to protect the fry and provide care, ensuring their safety and access to food. The fry initially feed on small aquatic organisms and microorganisms. Once the fry is large enough to venture away from the nest, the parents may become less protective, and the young fish gradually disperse into the surrounding habitat. The fry grows rapidly in the rich and food-abundant waters during the rainy season. They continue to grow and develop until they reach a more independent stage. It’s important to note that the breeding behavior of Emperor Snakehead can vary somewhat depending on the specific geographical region and environmental conditions.
Gender
Gender determination of Emperor Snakehead fish can be challenging, especially when they are young and not sexually mature. However, as they reach maturity, some physical characteristics can help differentiate between males and females. In general, adult females tend to be slightly larger than males. Females may exhibit a more robust body shape and grow to a larger size compared to males of the same age. The most reliable way to differentiate Emperor Snakehead is by examining the genital papilla. This is a small fleshy protrusion located just behind the anus. It is more pointed and elongated in males and rounder and less prominent in females. During the breeding season, males may exhibit more territorial and aggressive behaviors as they establish and defend their spawning sites.
Emperor Snakehead Fishing method
Fishing for Emperor Snakehead can be an exciting and challenging endeavor. As these fish are known for their strong fighting abilities and aggressive nature. Lures such as spinnerbaits, crankbaits, swimbaits. Topwater lures, such as poppers and frogs or soft plastics that mimic prey fish or other natural food sources. Casting your lure near aquatic vegetation, submerged structures, or along the edges of water bodies where they are likely to hide and ambush prey. Retrieve the lure with a jerking or twitching motion to mimic injured or struggling prey, can trigger strikes.
Fly fishing can be a unique and challenging experience, fly rods (7-9 weight) and appropriate floating lines. Choose fly patterns that imitate fish, frogs, or other prey items. Present the fly near potential hiding spots and use a stripping or jerking retrieve to entice strikes. Live or dead bait can also be effective, use strong and sharp hooks (circle hooks can be a good choice to reduce deep hooking) and wire leaders to prevent bite-offs. Common bait options include live fish, frogs, and large worms. Fish your bait near submerged vegetation, under overhanging branches, or in areas with potential snakehead activity.
Source: Seriouslyfish – Fishbase