African Obscure Snakehead Parachanna Obscura

Obscure Snakehead

Care Information

• Care Level: Moderate
• Tank Size: 88 Gal (400 Ltr) minimum
• Temperament: Aggressive
• PH: 6 – 8
• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• Flow: Moderate

What We Like About This Fish

• Beautiful Markings
• A Real Standout Fish
• Stunning Colouration
• Manageable Size

Description

Obscure Snakehead, also known as the African Obscure Snakehead, is a medium-sized predatory fish native to a wide range of freshwater systems in West and Central Africa. Its distribution includes the Senegal, Volta, Niger, Congo, and Nile river basins as well as many coastal rivers of Lower Guinea.

This species features an elongated, cylindrical body with a snake-like head that is slightly flattened and covered in slightly larger cycloid scales than those on the body. Its physical traits and hunting behavior make it a standout species in any aquarium.

Tank Setup & Compatibility

Due to their aggressive and highly predatory nature, Parachanna obscura should be housed in a species-specific aquarium. If kept with tank mates, they must be robust and of a similar adult size — such as large cichlids, catfish, Gars, or Plecos.

These snakeheads possess an accessory respiratory organ, allowing them to breathe air. As such, a tight-fitting lid is essential as they are known to jump, especially when startled or during feeding.

Feeding

African Obscure Snakeheads are ferocious carnivores. In the wild, their diet includes live fish, frogs, insects, and crayfish. In captivity, they should be fed with live feeder fish, earthworms, Crickets, and frogs

A protein-rich and varied diet is key to maintaining their health, natural behavior, and vibrant appearance.

Above images for illustration purposes only. Exact colours, patterns, and size may vary between individuals.

Please note: The livestock that is sold on our online site is not held in store at our Swell shop, or available for collection from the shop. Species sold at our Swell store will differ from ones available to order to your door.

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