Colin's Kingdom Fishes: Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua)
Vertebrates: Fishes
Dwarf Snakehead
(Channa Gachua)
In Singapore, this small, under 20 cm snakehead is
presently known only in the freshwater swamp-forest of
Nee Soon in the Central Catchment Area. It lives in
shallow streams and is largely nocturnal in habits. Small
fish and insects make up a large portion of its diet. Its
ability to breathe atmospheric air and its agility on land
enable it to conduct terrestrial ventures from one water
body to another. This locally rare fish is threatened by
potential habitat destruction. It is sometimes offered for
sale as an ornamental pet.