Did you ever look at an entity that is completely see-through and one can examine its innards on sight? Wondering what phenomenal marvel exists that can make the cognizant viewer feel amazed enough? The glass catfish does precisely that. With their semi-transparent nature, these beings with their glass-like bodies have earned the admiration of aquarists across the globe.
In this article, we will share a lot of interesting information about Glass Catfish and their remarks on feeding and accommodation.
Species of glass catfish
Glass Catfish Captivating Species
Glass catfish species, scientifically referred to as Kryptopterus vitreolus, is one of the most attractive fish because its body is utterly transparent. Originally found in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, these fish live naturally in such water conditions as slow-moving streams and rivers. With only a vague shadow of their inner organs, including the skeletal structure, entrails, and marrow reflected within their almost entirely translucent skin, they are easy to recognize.
The most captivating species of glass catfish are those in the genus Kryptopterus, particularly:
Kryptopterus minor
| This species is said to be small and has a rather fragile look about it. This species is commonly used by aquarists because these fish are relatively calm and very many of them are perfectly transparent. |  |
Kryptopterus piperatus
| This species is smaller than K. minor but has a relatively wider body. It also has this peppered appearance that makes it stand out from so many other models of cars. |  |
Kryptopterus vitreolus
| This is the most popular type of glass catfish, as it is large and almost completely transparent. This is a quiet fish, it does well in a community aquarium and does not require much attention. |  |
Are Glass Catfish Aggressive
In the majority of cases, Glass catfish are some of the most docile and shy fishes known to man. Yet, they are aggressive toward members of their kind, particularly during the breeding season or food competition. The best way to manage them is to group them in at least 6 members so that they are not inclined to attack each other and also avoid demoralization from the rest of the members.
If you intend to have other fishes together with the glass catfish, then ensure that the fishes that you select are not aggressive to disturb your glass catfish. Do not put the aggressive fish that may attack the glass catfish or any fish that likes to lay its eggs in the tank. Some of the appropriate companions for the West African cichlids include other small black-base colored fish such as tetras, rasboras, or danios.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Lifespan: Glass catfish is quite long-lived and has a life expectancy of approximately 7–8 years in captivity.
- Family: Glass catfish come under the family Kryptopteridae.
- Peculiarities: Popular for their clear body, their movement is rather interesting and that’s why many people love observing them. They are also crepuscular, meaning they are more active at night than during the day.
Nutrient Food for Glass Catfish
Like all other fish, glass catfish are mesophytic feeders, which are fish that feed on both plant and animal, matter. In the wild, they almost exclusively feed green plant parts fruits, and other plant materials including seeds and leaves: they also consume some plant matter.
To provide a nutritious diet for your glass catfish in captivity, you can offer them a variety of foods:
High-Quality Flake Food: Although glass catfish may be temperamental about what they eat, a premium quality flake food that makes it to the bottom should form the base of their diet. The best food that one should look for should be food meant for tropical fish and contains as many nutrients as possible.
Live and Frozen Foods: These are the preferred food sources for glass catfish. Some good options include:
- Brine Shrimp: Both live and frozen brine shrimp are excellent sources of protein and other essential nutrients.
- Bloodworms: Frozen bloodworms are another popular choice and are high in protein.
- Daphnia: Live or frozen daphnia is a good source of protein and other nutrients.
- Grindal Worms: These tiny worms are a natural food source for many fish, including glass catfish.
glass catfish
How Big Do Glass Catfish Get
Glass catfish typically reach a maximum size of about 3 inches (8 centimeters). However, they usually stay smaller, around 2.5 to 3 inches. Their growth rate is relatively slow, and they reach their adult size within a few years.
Glass Catfish Tank Mates and Tank Size
Tank Mates Compatibility: Glass catfish are peaceful, community-oriented fish that generally do well with other non-aggressive species. Some great tank mates for glass catfish include:
| Tetras (Neon, Rummy Nose, and others) | Corydoras Catfish | Rasboras | Platies |
| Barbs (small, peaceful species like Cherry Barbs) | Guppies | Mollies | Loaches (e.g., Kuhli Loaches) |
Can Glass Catfish Live with Bettas?
Glass catfish can live alongside Bettas if the Betta does not carry aggression with it. Male bettas get protection over their territory and can easily become aggressive to other fish, especially those with long fins or any fin which may be seen as an intrusion on the territory. I observed that if a Betta gets too aggressive it will stress the glass catfish because the latter is timid and delicate. Always monitor their behavior and make sure they always have places to hide.
Tank Size
They require at least 20 gallons for their tank to be able to support them well to grow to their mature size. These fish require to be put in larger aquariums because they like to swim around a lot. These are shoaling fish, which means that they are comfortable with the presence of more fish of the same kind; you should, therefore, put at least five or six in one tank. The bigger the tank most preferred since it increases the availability of space for glass catfish and other fish.
glass catfish tank mates
Interesting Glass Catfish Facts
There are some interesting facts about glass catfish:
- Translucent Bodies: Their unique characteristic is the fact that they do not have skin – their bodies are almost semitransparent, and you can even observe their respiratory, nervous, and circulatory systems.
- Nocturnal Nature: The glass catfish are mainly a type of nocturnal fish, which implies that they are mostly active at nighttime.
- Schooling Behavior: They are schooling fish, and the numbers should be six or more; otherwise, they will not school.
- Peaceful Disposition: Regarding their temperament, glass catfish are comparatively passive fish and can be socialized with other equally passive fish.
- Sensitive to Water Conditions: These species are not tolerant of water chemistry changes, and therefore water parameters must be kept very clean.
- Delicate Feeders: They are slow feeders and should be fed on live/frozen foods, including the brine shrimp and blood worms.
- Shy Nature: They are generally quite reserved creatures, especially in new surroundings, thus many opportunities for hiding should be made available to them.
ghost glass catfish
Concluding Thoughts
Just like their names suggest, glass catfish prefer to be in groups, moving slowly through the water column, and are captivating to watch. If you recognize they require a well-filtered tank, the right kind of food, and a compatible company, it’s easy to give them the best home. Remember, everybody purports to respect these fragile animals and take as much care as possible. Therefore, it is advisable to introduce the glass catfish into your aquarium or any tanking system and see the difference they make.
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