Bangka snakehead — a Channidae from Bangka Island, Indonesia, top predator — peaceful only with the unswallowable. Reaches 17.6–25.9 cm; juveniles group; adults rule a territory alone. 22–27 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
22–27 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
17.6–25.9 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Top predator — peaceful only with the unswallowable
Origin
Bangka Island, Indonesia
Species overview
Channa bankanensis is a Channidae from Bangka Island, Indonesia. Its name is honest: this fish breathes air, so a tight lid and a shaded surface are survival gear. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 17.6–25.9 cm. Juveniles group; adults rule a territory alone. Give it cover, clean water and a lid that latches — snakeheads explore any gap above the waterline. Maintain 22–27 °C at pH 6–7.5. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
Still and slow waters among vegetation
Flow
Still to gentle
Dissolved O₂
Tolerates low oxygen; air-breathing
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Soft sand
Hardscape
Dense cover and caves
Plants
Dense planting
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Juveniles group; adults rule a territory alone
Diet
A fish-eater that accepts tong-fed meaty fare
Recommended tankmates
A bonded pair in a very large tank — Only for the experienced
Avoid keeping with
Any fish smaller than itself — Food, not company
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Males have a narrower head
Breeding method
Builds a foam nest among floating plants; prolonged brood care