The present study elucidated the embryonic and larval development of snakehead Channa striatus from fertilization until metamorphosis. The snakehead was successfully bred in the laboratory by injecting ovaprim, a synthetic hormone (0.5mL/kg body weight). Spawning took place 24-26 hrs after the hormone injection. The fertilized eggs were floating, non-adhesive and straw yellow in color. The average diameter of fertilized eggs ranged from 1.20-1.40mm. Incubation periods was about 23-24hr at a temperature of 29±1℃. The percentage of hatching varied from 80-85. The newly hatched larva was 3.4±0.2 mm in length. The yolk absorption was completed within three days after hatching. The larvae metamorphosed into juveniles within 20 days after hatching.