Answer: Although little information exists in the scientific literature regarding predation on snakeheads, juveniles would be the most vulnerable to predation by other predatory fishes and some wading birds once they leave the nest and their guarding parents. In U.S. waters where snakeheads have become established, the most likely predatory fishes on juveniles would be gars, larger sunfishes, bass, perch, and pike. Because most native fishes could not eat the larger species of adult snakeheads, these snakeheads could become the top predators within the freshwater fish community.
Humans also eat snakeheads. Within their native ranges and places where they have been introduced, some species are considered a delicacy. Several species are caught in the wild for food, whereas others are cultured.
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U.S. Department of the Interior |
U.S. Geological Survey