Snakehead

Feared predator of Zone waterways

The Snakehead Mud Shark is one of the most deadly river predators to be found on the watercourses of the Forbidden Zone. It is found primarily in the waterways west of the Rift Mountains, and, though they are a piscine species, these fish can burrow and live for extended periods in muddy riverbanks where they lie in wait to seize prey on land.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Snakehead sharks resemble giant eels of massive size and strength. They possess prodigious constrictive power and their mighty jaws and six inch dagger-like teeth can cleave through human flesh with startling ease.

Biological Traits

Snakehead sharks can grow up to six feet in length and it is not unusual to encounter examples of this species weighing over 250 pounds. Their gills are adapted to take oxygen from moist coastal soil which gives them significant amphibian traits.

Genetics and Reproduction

Snakeheads spawn in the summer after a brief period of migratory mating that occurs in still river ox bows. Teeming females experience gestation for six months and give birth alone during winter monsoon season.

Growth Rate & Stages

The Snakehead shark reaches young adult maturity in a space of 2 years. Mothers school with their offspring until maturity.

Ecology and Habitats

The Snakehead Mud Shark lives in tropical freshwater habitats and favours waters that are warm and still. It tends to eschew companionship but has been known to travel in temporary schools when it depletes local prey and must seek new hunting grounds. These creatures are incredibly territorial and will fight without provocation.

Dietary Needs and Habits

The carnivorous Snakehead lays traps in muddy embankments but also takes prey in open waters. It hunts anything of comparable or lesser size, including and especially the giant catfish species of the Green River. Unfortunately, Snakeheads are highly aggressive predators and do not hesitate to attack human beings and will attack boats of travelers without provocation. Snakeheads usually hunt alone, but have been known to hunt in schools of four to six.

Biological Cycle

Snakeheads hunt year round and they take mating partners in summer during the dry season when the muddy riverbanks dry up and the rivers fall still.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Sharkheads are river-dwelling freshwater fish.

Average Intelligence

Animal

Lifespan

80 years

Average Weight

200

Average Length

5 feet

Average Physique

The Snakehead is a muscular predator that uses superior strength to overpower and kill its prey.