The Glass Catfish, also known as the Glass Ghost Catfish, is a unique and captivating freshwater species, renowned for its nearly transparent body that gives it a ghostly, almost ethereal appearance. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly the rivers of Thailand and Laos, these fish are prized for their fascinating look and peaceful temperament. Their transparent bodies make them an intriguing addition to any community tank, where they add a sense of mystery and elegance.
Product Details
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Species: Kryptopterus vitreolus
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Common Names: Glass Catfish, Glass Ghost Catfish
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Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Laos, Myanmar)
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Light Requirements: Low to Moderate
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Diet: Omnivorous (Eats small live and frozen foods, as well as plant matter)
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Maximum Size: 10 – 12 cm (4 – 5 inches)
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Temperament: Peaceful, Social
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Care Level: Moderate
Aquarium Setup
Glass Catfish require a well-planted aquarium with plenty of open swimming space. They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least five to feel secure and display natural behaviour. A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended for a small group.
These fish prefer dim lighting, which helps highlight their translucent bodies. They thrive in a tank with soft, slightly acidic water and moderate filtration. Substrate should be smooth to prevent injury to their delicate bodies, and plants or driftwood should be included to offer shelter and hiding places.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
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pH: 6.0 – 7.5
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Hardness: 2 – 15 dGH
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Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm
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Nitrates: <20 ppm
Growth and Maintenance
Glass Catfish are slow growers but can live for several years with proper care. Their diet is omnivorous, consisting of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
They are quite sensitive to water quality, so regular water changes and high filtration are essential. They are best kept in stable water conditions to prevent stress, which can lead to health problems.
Care Tips
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Keep in schools of at least five to promote their natural schooling behaviour.
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Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots to reduce stress.
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Keep the tank dimly lit to enhance their unique appearance.
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Offer a varied diet, including live and frozen foods.
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Ensure water quality is consistently high with regular water changes.
Compatibility
Glass Catfish are peaceful and do well in a community tank with other non-aggressive fish, including:
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Tetras (Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras)
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Corydoras Catfish
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Rasboras
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Small Gouramis
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Peaceful bottom-dwellers (Small Loaches, Snails)
Avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive species, such as Cichlids or Barbs, as they may stress the Glass Catfish or view them as prey.
Availability
Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Contact us for availability and add this fascinating and peaceful species to your aquarium today.
Disclaimer: Due to variations within species and age, your fish may not look identical to the image provided.
