Snakeheads (Pisces: Channidae): Natural History, Biology and economic Importance

Peter K. L. Ng and Kelvin K. P. Lim ; Department of Zoology, National University of Singapore -
Kelvin K. P. Lim ; Department of Zoology, National University of Singapore

Adult

8a. Body distinctly cylindrical in cross-section, well developed blade-like caniform teeth present on vomer and palatine (upper jaw); cephalic shields small; in life, body with various patterns on a dark brown dorsum; ventral parts light coloured; pectoral fins set horizontally (Malaysia, Singapore, Java, Sumatra, Borneo).

b. Body cylindrical in cross-section but appears slightly flattened dorso-ventrally, typical caniform teeth present only on lower jaw; cephalic shields distinct, large; in life, body plain coloured, with pale saddle-like patches on a dark dorsum or short dark obliquely vertical striations; pectoral fins set at an angle.

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