Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus)
The Glass Catfish is one of the most unique and fascinating freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Famous for its almost completely transparent body, this unusual catfish allows you to see its spine and internal structures through its clear tissue. Its delicate appearance, long barbels, and graceful schooling behavior make it a spectacular addition to peaceful planted and community aquariums.
Native to freshwater rivers and streams of Thailand, Kryptopterus vitreolus naturally inhabits slow to moderately flowing waters. In the aquarium, Glass Catfish appreciate clean, stable water with gentle to moderate flow, subdued lighting, live plants, driftwood, and plenty of open swimming space. Unlike many catfish that spend most of their time on the bottom, Glass Catfish typically school together in the middle levels of the aquarium.
Glass Catfish are highly social and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals, with larger schools being even better. When kept alone or in groups that are too small, they may become stressed, hide excessively, and fail to display their natural schooling behavior.
These catfish are carnivorous to omnivorous and should receive a varied diet of appropriately sized foods. High-quality micro pellets and flakes can be supplemented with frozen or live baby brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other small foods. Newly introduced specimens may initially prefer frozen or live foods until they become comfortable with prepared diets.
Glass Catfish are exceptionally peaceful and should be housed with similarly gentle community species. Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, peaceful Gouramis, Kuhli Loaches, and other non-aggressive fish make excellent companions. Aggressive, boisterous, or fin-nipping species should be avoided.
Scientific Name: Kryptopterus vitreolus
Common Name: Glass Catfish, Ghost Catfish
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Adult Size: Approximately 3–4 Inches
Minimum Tank Size: 30 Gallons
Recommended Group Size: 6 or More
Origin: Thailand
If you're looking for a truly unusual schooling fish, the Glass Catfish is an outstanding choice. Its remarkable transparent body, peaceful temperament, and graceful midwater schooling behavior make it a fascinating centerpiece for established freshwater community and planted aquariums.
