Glass Catfish

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment6–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) comes from rivers in southern Thailand and reaches about 6 to 8 cm. Almost all fish sold as glass catfish belong to this species, although the name Kryptopterus bicirrhis is still used on labels for a larger and rarely imported relative. Its transparency is real, not a trick of lighting, and a healthy fish shows a clear body with a silvery abdominal sac and a visible backbone. It must be kept in a group of six or more, at 22-26C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, in 100 litres or more with gentle to moderate flow, shaded planting and open mid-water space, since it hovers in the current rather than sitting on the bottom. Feed frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp and small sinking or slow flake, as it rarely takes food from the substrate. It is sensitive to poor water quality and to being kept in small numbers, and a fish that turns milky white is stressed or ill rather than simply changing colour. Keep it with small peaceful community fish and avoid boisterous tankmates.

• How active is a Glass Catfish?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Glass Catfish need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Glass Catfish need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Glass Catfish a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Glass Catfish live?

  6–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Glass Catfish?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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