Identification

An elongated, cylindrical fish with a depressed, snake-like head, brown to olive marked with dark chevrons or blotches on the flanks. Long, low dorsal and anal fins running to the rounded tail. An accessory breathing organ lets it breathe air.

Features that never mislead

Flattened, scaly “snake” head, elongated cylindrical body.

Long dorsal and anal fins without strong spines, reaching the rounded tail.

Dark chevron/blotch patterns on an olive to brown background.

Breathes air; survives in stagnant, oxygen-poor water.

Size and weight

Usually 25 to 40 cm; published maximum around 50 cm.

Behaviour and ecology

An ambush predator of weed beds: it pounces on fish, frogs and insects from plant cover. Territorial, it tolerates warm, deoxygenated water by gulping air at the surface. Can briefly move over damp ground.

Reproduction and season

Oviparous with parental care: the pair guards a nest in the vegetation and protects the eggs and fry, sometimes sheltered near the surface.

Fishing practice

Techniques, from most to least effective

Surface lure (soft frog, popper) or live bait in gaps in weed beds. The top technique.

Bottom line with live bait along vegetated edges.

Trap and net in subsistence fishing.

Explosive surface strikes and runs towards cover: a lively, spectacular fight for its size. Mouth lined with small sharp teeth; unhook with pliers and hold this muscular, slippery fish firmly.

Eating quality

Firm, tasty white flesh, very popular; a fish sought after by maquis eateries, excellent grilled or in sauce.

Sources: FishBase (Parachanna obscura, Günther 1861); IUCN Red List (Least Concern); Lévêque & Paugy. Local names to be documented.