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What is a Glass Catfish?

L.K. Blackburn
L.K. Blackburn

A glass catfish is a type of freshwater fish that is found in the rivers of Africa and Asia and is known for its completely transparent body that fully reveals its bone structure and organs to plain sight. The unique appearance of the fish makes it a popular aquarium pet, with the fish normally kept in a school size of six or more. The glass catfish has two protruding barbels as whiskers off the side of its face, and it averages 5.9 inches (15 cm) in length. The scientific name of the common Asian variety of the fish is Kryptopterus bicirrhis, with the first part of the name referring to the fish's complete lack of a dorsal fin.

The glass catfish lives in Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, and it is found in large rivers and drainage basins. It lives in water with relatively moderate to low temperatures, and it prefers areas near the shore in cloudy water. When in the wild, it primarily eats water bugs and will sometimes consume smaller fish.

The glass catfish lives in Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, and it is found in large rivers and drainage basins.
The glass catfish lives in Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, and it is found in large rivers and drainage basins.

It is often confused with the ghost catfish because the two have an almost identical appearance. As such, it was not known until 1989 that the two fish are actually distinct species. The ghost catfish is formally known as Kryptopterus minor. In Cambodia, both the ghost and glass catfish are known as trey kes park, and they are used in the making of the fish sauce prahoc. In the Malay Peninsula as well, the two fish share a common name, lais tipis, with the glass catfish alone being called lais limpok.

Within the Kryptopterus genus of catfish, there are 19 species that all have transparent body types that lack a dorsal fin and live in the freshwater rivers and basins of Southeast Asia. There also are African glass catfishes that have larger bodies and shorter overall barbel whiskers. The glass catfish become white and opaque when they are ill, dying or already dead.

As aquarium fish kept as pets, glass catfish eat flakes, brine shrimp and different varieties of worms, including blood worms and tubifex worms. They need to kept in large schools or they will become very shy and retreat into hiding, which affects their eating habits. The fish prefer to have dark-colored plants and other foliage in the tank to hide around, and most of their activity occurs during the daytime. Glass catfish are prone to bacterial infection that starts as white patches, and they should be quarantined in a separate tank when first purchased, so that the owner can watch for signs of disease. Once the glass catfish are moved into a main tank, good companion fish for the catfish school includes male guppies, rainbow fish and small cichilids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the appearance of a Glass Catfish?

The Glass Catfish, known scientifically as Kryptopterus vitreolus, is renowned for its almost completely transparent body, which allows you to see its bones and internal organs. This unique adaptation is thought to help it evade predators in its natural habitat, as it can blend in with its surroundings in the water.

Where can you find Glass Catfish in the wild?

Glass Catfish are native to Southeast Asia, predominantly found in the river systems of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. They thrive in slow-moving or standing water with plenty of vegetation, which provides them with cover and ample food sources.

What do Glass Catfish eat?

In their natural habitat, Glass Catfish are omnivores, feeding on a diet that includes both plant material and small aquatic animals. They tend to consume plankton, algae, and small invertebrates. In aquarium settings, they can be fed a variety of foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and quality flake or pellet foods.

How do Glass Catfish behave in aquariums?

Glass Catfish are known for their peaceful and social nature, often seen swimming in small schools in aquariums. They prefer environments with subdued lighting and plenty of hiding places, such as plants or driftwood. These shy fish can become stressed if kept alone or with aggressive tank mates.

Are Glass Catfish easy to care for in home aquariums?

Caring for Glass Catfish can be moderately challenging. They require well-maintained water with specific parameters: a pH level of 6.5-7.0 and temperatures between 75-80°F (24-27°C). They are sensitive to changes in water quality and require a tank with a gentle current and good filtration.

How long do Glass Catfish typically live?

With proper care, Glass Catfish can live up to 8 years in captivity. Their lifespan in the wild can vary, but a stable environment, a balanced diet, and regular tank maintenance significantly contribute to their longevity in home aquariums.

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    • The glass catfish lives in Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, and it is found in large rivers and drainage basins.
      By: bogdanserban
      The glass catfish lives in Borneo, Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula, and it is found in large rivers and drainage basins.