Common Name: Glass Catfish (also known as Ghost Catfish)
Scientific Name: Kryptopterus vitreolus
Genus: Kryptopterus
Wild Origin: Southeast Asia, primarily found in slow-moving rivers and streams of Thailand and Indonesia
The Glass Catfish is a fascinating freshwater fish known for its completely transparent body, which makes its internal organs and bones visible, creating an ethereal, almost ghost-like appearance. This transparency, combined with their peaceful schooling nature, makes Glass Catfish a favorite among aquarists. These fish are typically around 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) in length and are best known for their gentle demeanor and mesmerizing appearance as they swim gracefully in schools. Glass Catfish can live up to 5-8 years in captivity with proper care.
Habitat and Tank Requirements:
In the wild, Glass Catfish inhabit slow-moving, clear water bodies with dense vegetation and low light. To replicate these conditions in an aquarium, it’s important to provide a calm environment with plenty of open swimming space and soft, clean water.
Tank Size and Water Parameters:
PARAMETER | RECOMMENDED |
---|---|
Tank Size | Minimum 60 litres |
Temperature | 72-80°F (22-27°C) |
pH | 6.0-7.0 |
Hardness | Soft to moderately hard water, 2-15 dGH |
Glass Catfish thrive in well-maintained tanks with stable water conditions and soft, slightly acidic to neutral water. Since they are sensitive to sudden changes in water quality, regular water changes and careful monitoring of water parameters are essential. A soft substrate such as sand or fine gravel is ideal, along with plenty of plants and driftwood to provide hiding spots and a sense of security.
These fish require low to moderate lighting, as bright light can stress them. Floating plants are a great addition to help diffuse the light and create shaded areas, mimicking their natural habitat.
We Recommend:
These carefully selected options provide a well-balanced nutritional profile, ensuring that your fish receive the essential nutrients they need for optimal growth, vibrant colors, and overall health. By offering a variety of these high-quality foods, you can help maintain the vitality and well-being of your fish, promoting a healthy and thriving aquarium environment.
Behavior and Compatibility:
Glass Catfish are peaceful, schooling fish that do best when kept in groups of 6 or more. In small groups, they can become shy and stressed, but in larger schools, they exhibit more natural, active behavior and are less prone to stress. They are gentle swimmers and prefer calm waters.
Due to their peaceful nature, Glass Catfish are ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species such as tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and small gouramis. However, they should not be housed with larger, aggressive fish that could outcompete them for food or cause stress. Their transparent bodies and delicate structure also make them vulnerable to fin-nippers, so tank mates should be chosen carefully.
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