A compact, intelligent Channa predator for secure specialist aquariums. Assam Dwarf Snakehead needs cover, a tight lid, air access and careful tank-mate planning.

CarnivorousChanna GachuaFreshwater FishIndiaModerate CarePredatory FishRare Tropical FishSnakehead Fish

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Channa gachua

Max Adult Size

up to 33 cm

Lifespan

10 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Predatory

Temperature

22–26°C

pH Range

6–7

Hardness

5–15 dGH

Minimum Tank

120L

Diet

Meaty frozen foods, insects, crustaceans and carnivore pellets

Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size above for the actual shipping size. Product-photo provenance and any image-specific limitations are stated on the listing.

Water Parameters

Temperature

22–26°C

22°CIdeal26°C

pH Level

6–7

6Ideal7

Water Hardness

5–15 dGH

5 dGHIdeal15 dGH

Channa gachua

Assam Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua) – 6–15cm Size Grades

Name: Assam Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua) – 6–15cm Size Grades
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: KK42
Availability: OutOfStock

Moderate Care

Predatory

£25.99Sold Out

Size: 6-8 cm

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A compact, intelligent Channa predator for secure specialist aquariums. Assam Dwarf Snakehead needs cover, a tight lid, air access and careful tank-mate planning.

CarnivorousChanna GachuaFreshwater FishIndiaModerate CarePredatory FishRare Tropical FishSnakehead Fish

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Channa gachua

Max Adult Size

up to 33 cm

Lifespan

10 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Predatory

Temperature

22–26°C

pH Range

6–7

Hardness

5–15 dGH

Minimum Tank

120L

Diet

Meaty frozen foods, insects, crustaceans and carnivore pellets

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Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

22–26°C

22°CIdeal26°C

pH Level

6–7

6Ideal7

Water Hardness

5–15 dGH

5 dGHIdeal15 dGH

Assam Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua) is a compact, intelligent predator for specialist aquarists who can provide a secure covered aquarium. It is an air-breathing snakehead, so leave access to surface air and use a tight lid with no escape gaps.

Quick Facts

Scientific name	Channa gachua
Adult size	Variable locality forms; plan for up to 33cm potential
Minimum aquarium	120 litres or larger for a single fish or settled pair
Water	22-26°C, pH 6.0-7.0, moderate hardness
Diet	Carnivore: insects, crustaceans, meaty frozen foods and predator pellets
Temperament	Predatory and territorial; not a peaceful community fish

Care and Setup

Use driftwood, floating cover, caves and calm filtration so the fish can rest out of bright light. Avoid small tank mates and do not mix with fish that can be swallowed or bullied. Feed varied meaty foods without overfeeding, because predatory fish quickly pollute small systems.

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Related Snakeheads

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a healthy Dwarf Snakehead in the UK?

Buy a healthy Dwarf Snakehead from Tropical Fish Co for a strong, active specimen. This Channa gachua is an intermediate predator, so check stock, delivery, and setup needs before ordering.

How much space does a Dwarf Snakehead need in an aquarium?

A Dwarf Snakehead needs at least 75 litres, with 120 litres recommended for stability. Channa gachua grows to 15-20 cm, so a larger tank helps with territory, filtration, and long-term health.

Can I keep a Dwarf Snakehead in a community tank safely?

No, Dwarf Snakeheads are predatory and aggressive, so peaceful community fish are unsafe. Keep Channa gachua in a species tank or with only large, robust fish of similar size.

What water temperature is best for Channa gachua in captivity?

Keep Channa gachua at 20-26°C, with 23°C as the ideal target. This range supports dwarf snakehead temperature stability, steady feeding, and calmer behaviour in a well-maintained aquarium.

What pH and hardness do Dwarf Snakeheads prefer long term?

Dwarf Snakeheads do best at pH 6.0-7.5 and 5-15 dGH. That range matches Channa gachua pH range and Channa gachua water hardness needs, helping reduce stress and support healthy appetite.

What should I feed a Dwarf Snakehead for best condition?

Feed a Dwarf Snakehead a carnivore diet of quality frozen or live foods, plus sinking meaty pellets. Channa gachua feeding should be varied but protein-rich, with small portions to avoid waste.

Do Dwarf Snakeheads need a tight lid and air access?

Yes, they need a tight-fitting lid because they can jump and breathe atmospheric air. Channa gachua breathing air requirement means open gaps are risky, especially in warm or stressed conditions.

What tank setup works best for a Dwarf Snakehead species tank?

Use a species-focused aquarium with cover, driftwood, and floating plants. Leaf litter setup and calm filtration help Channa gachua feel secure while keeping the mid-bottom zone usable.

Can Dwarf Snakeheads live with large robust fish safely?

Sometimes, but only with large robust fish that cannot be swallowed or bullied. Avoid small fish and peaceful community fish, because Channa gachua is a predatory fish UK keepers should house carefully.

Why is my Dwarf Snakehead hiding so much during the day?

Hiding is normal for this ambush predator, especially in new tanks. Channa gachua behaviour improves with cover, dim lighting, and a secure setup that matches its mid-bottom lifestyle.

How difficult is Dwarf Snakehead breeding for experienced keepers?

Breeding is moderate and best for experienced keepers. Dwarf snakehead breeding uses mouthbrooding, so stable water, privacy, and careful observation are important during spawning and fry care.

How do I tell male and female Dwarf Snakeheads apart?

Sexing is not always easy, but males are often slimmer and more colourful. In Channa gachua jantan, body shape and breeding behaviour are usually more reliable than colour alone.

How long can a Dwarf Snakehead live with good care?

With stable water and a proper diet, Dwarf Snakeheads can live 5-10 years. Good Channa gachua care guide habits include regular maintenance, secure housing, and avoiding overfeeding.

What size and age does a Dwarf Snakehead reach as an adult?

Adults usually reach 15-20 cm, making this a compact predator rather than a giant snakehead. Channa gachua max size still needs space, so plan for adult behaviour, not juvenile size.

Customer Reviews

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What customers say about ordering from us

4.6 on Google Maps 4.4 · 91 shop reviews read them

4 out of 5Verified buyer
I have a small group of long finned mountain minnows. So was delighted to be able to order ten of this variety to increase the genetics in my tank . The ones I recieved are healthy but it’s to early to give a verdict on wether they are of a long finned type since they are small currently.
Gordon Walker · 23 Sept 2026
5 out of 5Verified buyer
100% success travel and "installation". Pleased with quality of purchase. The Siamese fighter a bit "shy" so have not yet seen him at his best yet but looking good. Happy customer. GG
George E Garratt · 21 Sept 2026

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Care at a Glance

Water Parameters

Assam Dwarf Snakehead (Channa gachua) – 6–15cm Size Grades

Get a product-specific stock alert

Care at a Glance