Snakehead - (Channa argus) ILLEGAL IN USA!

🐟 Northern Snakehead – (Channa argus) – Invasive Predator (ILLEGAL in USA)

The Northern Snakehead (Channa argus) is a highly aggressive, predatory fish native to parts of China, Russia, and Korea. Recognizable by its elongated body, large mouth full of sharp teeth, and snake-like patterning, this species is capable of breathing air and surviving out of water for extended periods.

While impressive in size and predatory behavior, the Northern Snakehead is a destructive invasive species in many parts of the world. In the United States, it is illegal to own, transport, or release this fish due to its ability to devastate local ecosystems by outcompeting native fish and preying on them.

🚫 LEGAL WARNING – USA

• ❌ Ownership, transport, sale, or release is prohibited under federal law (Lacey Act) and most state laws
• 💀 Harsh penalties, including fines and jail time, may apply for violations
• 🛑 Report any sightings in US waters to local wildlife authorities immediately

🔎 Quick Facts – Northern Snakehead (Channa argus)

• 📛 Common Names: Northern Snakehead, Snakehead Fish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Channa argus
• 🌍 Origin: China, Russia, Korea
• 🎨 Appearance: Elongated body with brown/tan snake-like mottling, large mouth with sharp teeth
• 📏 Max Size: Up to 33–40 inches (84–100 cm)
• 💎 Rarity in US: Illegal, not available through legal channels

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🦈 Apex predator in freshwater systems
• 🐟 Extremely aggressive toward other fish
• 🌬 Can breathe air using a suprabranchial organ, allowing survival out of water for hours
• 🛡 Territorial and highly invasive

🏠 Habitat in Native Range

• 🌿 Slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds
• 🪵 Prefers vegetated, shallow water areas
• 🌊 Can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including low oxygen levels

💧 Water Parameters (Native Habitat)

• 🌡️ Temperature: 50–86°F (10–30°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Apex Predator

• 🐟 Feeds on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and even small birds or mammals near the water
• ❌ Not suitable for aquarium feeding in the US due to legal restrictions

📋 Northern Snakehead Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Northern Snakehead is a formidable, air-breathing predator admired in its native range but banned in the USA due to its devastating impact on ecosystems.