Description
Blue Andrao Channa (Channa andrao)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Channa andrao
Common Names: Blue Andrao, Dwarf Snakehead, Andrao Channa
Family: Channidae (Snakeheads)
Origin: Northeast India (Brahmaputra River basin, Assam region)
Size: 4 – 5 inches (10 – 12 cm)
Lifespan: 7 – 10 years in captivity
Tank Zone: Bottom & mid-level dwellers (prefer shaded areas)
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 80 – 200 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 20 – 28°C (68 – 82°F) – cooler side preferred
Hardness: 4 – 10 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
One of the smallest snakeheads, making it popular for aquariums.
Striking metallic blue and turquoise coloration with red/orange fin highlights.
Males are more colorful and elongated; females rounder and duller.
Possess a labyrinth organ – can breathe atmospheric air.
Prefer heavily planted tanks with dim lighting and hiding spaces.
Known for their semi-aggressive but manageable nature in proper setups.
🍽️ Food
Type: Carnivorous predator.
Diet: Live/frozen foods – bloodworms, earthworms, small feeder shrimp, insect larvae. Can adapt to pellets and sticks if trained.
Feeding Schedule: Once daily (skip feeding 1–2 days a week to prevent obesity).
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a pair.
Filtration: Gentle flow – they dislike strong currents.
Substrate: Fine sand or soil, with leaf litter for natural feel.
Decor: Dense plants, caves, driftwood, floating plants for shade.
Water Change: 20–30% weekly; stable parameters preferred.
Cover: Tight-fitting lid – they are expert jumpers.
👥 Social Behavior
Best kept as a pair or single specimen; groups may fight.
Can be territorial, especially males.
Tank mates: Not ideal for community tanks, but can coexist with similarly sized, calm bottom dwellers (loaches, larger barbs).
Avoid small fish/shrimp – will be seen as prey.
✅ Do’s
Keep tank well-planted with shaded areas.
Provide a tight lid to prevent escapes.
Maintain slightly cooler water for longevity.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t house with very small fish – they will be eaten.
Don’t keep multiple males together in small tanks.
Don’t expose to high temperatures for long periods.
⭐ Quick Tips
One of the most colorful dwarf snakeheads, suitable for experienced aquarists.
Hardy and beautiful but require specialized care.
Best displayed in a species-only tank for full color and natural behavior.
