Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Northern Snakehead (Channa argus) - High Risk

Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally, and a high or medium climate match to the contiguous United States.

Channa argus, northern snakehead, is a fish native to Eastern Asia. This species is an obligate air breather allowing it to breathe atmospheric oxygen. This allows the northern snakehead to travel over land during periods of heavy rain. Channa argus is susceptible to epizootic ulcerative syndrome, a disease listed by the World Organisation for Animal Health. Channa argus is one of the most important aquaculture species in its native range. Channa argus, and all species in the family Channidae, are listed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as injurious species. Channa argus has been introduced in the United States and Central Asia, most likely via aquarium releases and both intentional and unintentional aquaculture releases. This species is able to outcompete many native species; it is piscivorous and has a similar diet and habitat to the native largemouth bass (Micropterus nigricans). Changes to native species abundance and community structure structure
Something temporarily or permanently constructed, built, or placed; and constructed of natural or manufactured parts including, but not limited to, a building, shed, cabin, porch, bridge, walkway, stair steps, sign, landing, platform, dock, rack, fence, telecommunication device, antennae, fish cleaning table, satellite dish/mount, or well head.

Learn more about structure have been observed, as well. The History of Invasiveness for Channa argus is classified as High due to multiple established populations outside the native range and documented negative impacts. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species. Areas that had a high climate match include the Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, Great Basin, northern Great Plains, and the Central Valley of California. This particular species of snakehead is the most cold-tolerant in the family Channidae, allowing it to inhabit more northern areas of the United States. The Certainty of Assessment for this ERSS is classified as High due to the abundant information available on the biology, ecology, distribution, and impacts of introduction of Channa argus. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Channa argus in the contiguous United States is High.