Snakeheads (family Channidae) are airbreathing freshwater fishes containing two genera, Channa with 26 species native to Asia, Malaysia, and Indonesia; and Parachanna with 3 species native to tropical Africa. Some snakeheads are small, reaching about 17 centimeters, but most are much larger, the largest reported to be 1.8 meters in length. All are considered thrust predators with most being piscivorous as adults.

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Of the 46 species of foreign fishes known to be established as reproducing populations in open waters of the contiguous United States, approximately 65% are known or presumed to have originated from the aquarium fish trade. Many escaped or were released from aquarium fish culture facilities and some were introduced by aquarists. More than 50 additional, non-established fishes, mostly aquarium species, have been collected in the wild. These introductions, with established populations, have not been restricted to the so-called Sun Belt states, but have occurred throughout the U.S. Because many introductions have resulted in serious negative impcts to native fishes, and most have the potential to do so, it is imperative that the aquarium fish industry and trade take measures to curtail such releases. The means of accomplishing this goal are relatively inexpensive. Industry must assist in public education to reduce introductions by aquarists. 0

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Many exotic organisms, particularly fishes and plants, have become a part of Florida's aquatic ecosystems. The majority of these organisms was introduced accidentally as a result of activities of professional aquarists, particularly through carelessness by tropical aquarium fish farm operations. One exotic fish species was established from the release of stocks imported for experimental purposes. Amateur aquarists and tourist attractions also have the potential for introducing exotic aquatic organisms. Future introductions can be reduced through better safeguards in respect to prevention of escape and more public education.Purposeful introductions for sport or food, aquarium resources, or for biological control of pests are more extensive than accidental introductions. Some have the potential for long-term ecological devastation. They are often undertaken without adequate information on the possible consequences.