Parachanna obscura (Obscura Snakehead)

(Source: Fishbase, 2019)

Scientific Name: Parachanna obscura

Common Name: Obscura Snakehead

Genus: Parachanna

Species: obscura

Ijaw Name: Iyoro

Family: Channidae

Habitat: Lakes

Gear Type: Fishing Traps

Season of Occurrence: Rainy/Dry season

Description: The Obscura Snakehead, is a predatory freshwater fish found widely across West and Central Africa, from Senegal to Cameroon, and extending inland through the Congo and Nile river basins. This species prefers habitats with dense vegetation, such as swampy floodplains and areas with submerged plants, which provide ample cover for its ambush predation style. Obscura Snakehead typically reaches about 50 cm in length, though some individuals can grow slightly larger. It is strictly carnivorous, feeding mainly on smaller fish and invertebrates, but it adapts well to various types of frozen foods in captivity. The species is best housed alone in aquariums, as it can view smaller tankmates as prey due to its aggressive and predatory nature. While breeding is rare in captivity, the African snakehead exhibits unique spawning behaviors and is known for strong parental care, with both parents often guarding the eggs until they hatch. This species is assessed as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, indicating it is not currently at significant risk of extinction in the wild.