Air-Breathing Snakehead Fish Thrives in Missouri: A Remarkable Discovery
In a fascinating revelation, the waters of Missouri have once again unveiled the presence of an extraordinary air-breathing predatory fish species. Snakeheads, belonging to the Channidae family and originating from Africa and Asia, have garnered both culinary fame and notoriety as intentionally introduced invasive creatures.
With incredible survival abilities, these elusive snakeheads can breathe air, allowing them to venture beyond the confines of water. They exhibit the remarkable capability of surviving on land for up to four days, as long as they remain moist. By wriggling their bodies and fins, they can migrate short distances of up to 400 meters on wet land, even as juvenile fish.
The understanding of fish respiration expands beyond the conventional belief of gill-based oxygen extraction. While gills serve as the primary means of obtaining oxygen from water, certain fish species can also absorb oxygen through their skin or respire through their buccal cavity (mouth). Additionally, some fish possess fully developed lungs and can breathe in the open air. Examples of air-breathing fish include the Murrel, Giant Catfish (Magur), and Mud Crab.
As invasive species, snakeheads have gained notoriety for causing ecological harm in areas where they are not native. Being apex predators with no natural enemies, they disrupt local food chains. A mature female snakehead can release a staggering 15,000 eggs in a single spawning event and can mate up to five times a year, potentially giving rise to an army of 150,000 eggs within just two years.
Recently, the Missouri Department of Conservation announced the rediscovery of a northern snakehead fish in the state, marking the second sighting since 2019. This finding raises concerns, although no additional snakeheads were located despite extensive search efforts, providing hope that the population remains limited.
Northern snakeheads, originating from East Asia, are formidable predators that prey upon native species and compete fiercely for resources. With lengths of up to three feet, they possess adaptability that allows them to survive in low-oxygenated waters by extracting oxygen from the air. The full extent of their impact on native fish populations is yet to be determined, but previous reports indicate their indiscriminate eating habits.
Despite a federal ban on the transportation and interstate travel of snakeheads since 2002, sporadic appearances continue to raise concerns. These invasive species have been spreading northward through the St. Francis River watershed, warranting increased vigilance among biologists and environmentalists.
To combat the invasion, individuals who capture snakehead fish are advised to photograph them and take necessary measures to eliminate them, such as freezing or placing them on ice. The Missouri Department of Conservation recommends killing the fish by severing the head or gutting it, and sightings should be promptly reported to their Southeast Regional Office. Releasing the fish back into the water or leaving them on the bank must be avoided to prevent further spread and colonization in new water bodies.
The recent rediscovery of air-breathing predatory snakehead fish in Missouri has captivated scientists and conservationists. These resilient creatures possess remarkable survival skills, pose an ecological threat, and offer intriguing culinary potential. Continuous monitoring efforts and proactive measures are essential to protect native ecosystems. By understanding their fascinating adaptations and taking immediate action, we can preserve the delicate balance of our aquatic environments.
