The name alone sends a chill down most people’s spines, but there’s something more about the Snakehead fish. Many may know it from its starring role in the 1998 movie, “Titanic,” but this fish-eating reptile is far more deadly than screenwriters John and Billy Bigg would have you believe.
If you’re wondering about the name, it comes from the 2003 film, “House of Gucci,” in which the snakehead plays a key role. The moniker actually came from a real-life fish peddler who specialized in the dangerous species. In the movies, the snakeheads are usually associated with the Yakuza gang, but in reality, they’re often used as mercenaries by various countries’ intelligence agencies.
The average weight of a live, adult snakehead fish is around three pounds. The meat is quite oily, which some people may find intimidating, but it’s certainly not harmful. That’s compared to a goldfish, which normally weighs around a half a pound. And let’s not forget about the extremely toxic blue tang, which can measure up to five pounds (2.3 kg).
Table of Contents
Identifying A Snakehead
Though it is extremely rare to see one in person, there are several ways you can identify a snakehead fish. John Hattie, a professor at the Coventry University, explains that they have three unique features that make them easily recognizable.
The first thing you’ll notice about these fish is their long, slender bodies. Since they’re excellent swimmers, they’ve evolved to have longer and lighter legs in order to propel themselves through the water. Their heads are also distinct, with large, triangular mouths and small, triangular-shaped teeth. The middle head protrudes backward, which gives it the appearance of a snake’s head when viewed from the side.
Hattie also points out that since snakes are cold-blooded, their bodies heat up rapidly when they’re active, which makes them easier to spot. You can thus tell when these fishes are moving by the way the water trembles.
The fact that the bulk of the population is unaware of a snakehead’s existence in their waters only makes the animal’s presence that little bit more mysterious. You may see a snakehead lurking near the surface, waiting to strike at its prey. Or, you may encounter a lone specimen while fly fishing or on a warm summer day at the beach. When they’re not out looking for food, these fish will often hang out in large clusters, known as school. While they don’t pose a serious danger to humans, it’s still considered bad luck to kill one. Especially since the meat of a snakehead is considered a delicacy among Chinese chefs and gourmands.
A History Of Snakeheads
Even before they were known as Snakeheads, these fish were occasionally used in Chinese medicine and to supplement the diets of snakes and other animals. According to the Harvard-MGH Fish Behavioural Ecology and Evolutionary Genetics Laboratory, there are two main reasons these animals were so prized as food. First, they’re a nutritious source of protein and certain amino acids. Second, their oily flesh makes them excellent fuel for Chinese chefs, who utilize this energy source when preparing the country’s traditional specialty, Peking duck.
The first written mention of these fish was made in the 14th century, when they were included in the Chinese pharmacopeia. In the 20th century, snakeheads were frequently found in the waters around Hong Kong, likely due to the territory’s status as a free port. Most of the individuals living near the Pearl River in southern China were fishermen who relied on these fish for food back in the day. And, as mentioned above, Chinese chefs have long prized them as a tasty, healthy addition to their cuisine. In the 21st century, these animals are still considered a delicacy in the country and the surrounding areas.
Why Are Some People Afraid Of Snakeheads?
Though they don’t pose a serious threat to humans, it’s probably not a good idea to confuse them with the much smaller and more harmless blue tang, which is also known to frequent China’s fresh waters. Most people are more fearful of the snakehead because of folklore and urban legends surrounding these animals. And, as we’ve established above, the name alone is usually enough to send shivers down the average person’s spine. The fact that they’re often mistaken for snakes further adds to the mythos surrounding these strange fish.
Some people claim that if you’re not aware of their existence, then they won’t bother you. It’s also been suggested that they be renamed as “Longnose Shark,” which would make them a little less terrifying. Though these suggestions have been met with much ridicule, it’s still good advice for those who’d like to keep a lower profile.
Do Snakeheads Have A Brighter Future?
Thanks to advancements in genetics and biotechnology, there are now ways for biologists to intervene and save endangered species. This could potentially lead to the future breeding and domestication of snakeheads. Though this would likely require a massive shift in societal attitudes toward these animals, it’s still an achievable goal.