Rainbow Snakehead
Channa bleheri
Water Parameters
About
The Rainbow Snakehead is an exception among snakeheads: small, colorful, and relatively peaceful. With blue, red, and orange patterns on a serpentine body, it is a jewel for cool temperate water aquariums. It breathes atmospheric air and can survive in low-oxygen waters.
Behavior & Temperament
The most peaceful and smallest snakehead in the genus. It can be kept with similarly sized fish. Shy at first, it becomes interactive over time. Forms stable pairs.
Feeding
Carnivore. Accepts small fish, shrimp, earthworms, insect larvae and frozen foods. Can be trained to accept high-quality carnivore pellets.
Breeding
Oviparous with parental care. Both parents incubate the eggs in the mouth (buccal). Breeding is possible in an aquarium with a compatible pair and a lower temperature.
Care Notes
Tolerates and PREFERS lower temperatures (not tropical). Use a tightly sealed lid because it breathes air and may try to escape. Provide abundant hiding places. Do not keep with very small fish. It can breathe atmospheric air.
Compatibility
The most community-compatible snakehead with robust fish of similar size. Avoid very small fish. Can be kept as a pair. Do not combine with other snakeheads.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Channa bleheri |
|---|---|
| Family | Channidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 17.0 cm (6.7") |
| Min Tank | 150 L (40 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Carnivore. Accepts small fish, shrimp, earthworms, insect larvae and frozen foods. Can be trained to accept high-quality carnivore pellets. |
| Temperament | The most peaceful and smallest snakehead in the genus. It can be kept with similarly sized fish. Shy at first, it becomes interactive over time. Forms stable pairs. |
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