Ghost Catfish Care: Complete Guide for Beginners
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Ghost Catfish Species Profile and Identification
Ghost Catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus vitreolus , are a fascinating species of fish native to Southeast Asia. These small and unique-looking fish are a popular choice among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts thanks to their transparent bodies, which give them the ghostly appearance that inspired their name.
Physical Characteristics:
- Length: Typically grows up to 3 inches (8 cm) in captivity.
- Body: Transparent and laterally compressed, making internal organs visible.
- Fins: Most have fused pectoral and pelvic fins forming a single, continuous fin.
- Eyes: Possess relatively large, reflective eyes.
Behavior and Social Dynamics:
- Ghost Catfish are a shoaling species , meaning they prefer to live and swim in groups.
- They are generally peaceful , but may be shy and stressed if kept alone or in groups smaller than 6.
- They are best kept in groups of 10 or more to create a natural environment and allow them to feel secure.
When adding Ghost Catfish to your aquarium, be sure of their proper identification. Ghost Catfish are often confused with the Glass Catfish ( Kryptopterus bicirrhis ), which is a much larger species. Here are some key differences to look for:
- Size: Glass Catfish grow much bigger – up to 6 inches.
- Fins: Glass Catfish have separate pectoral and pelvic fins, unlike the fused fins of Ghost Catfish.
- Distribution: Glass Catfish are found throughout Thailand, whereas Ghost Catfish are found in Indonesia and Malaysia.
In conclusion, identifying Ghost Catfish correctly is essential to ensure they are compatible with your aquarium setup and to provide them with the best possible care. Understanding their physical characteristics and social dynamics will help you create a comfortable and natural environment for these intriguing fish.
Ghost Catfish Supplies
Before getting started, you need to gather some essential supplies to provide the best environment for your Ghost Catfish. These supplies include:
- Aquarium : Purchase a minimum 20-gallon tank. Ghost Catfish like to swim in schools, so having ample space for them to move around is necessary.
- Filtration System : A high-quality filtration system is crucial in maintaining clear water. The system should be capable of handling the tank size and have adjustable flow settings to tailor to your Ghost Catfish’s needs.
- Heater and Thermometer : Ghost Catfish require stable water temperatures between 72°F and 82°F. A reliable heater and thermometer will help maintain these temperatures consistently.
- Aquarium Substrate : Use a darker substrate, like black sand or gravel, which helps create an ideal environment and brings out their natural translucent coloration.
- Aquarium Decor and Plants : Provide plenty of hiding spots and shelter for your Ghost Catfish using driftwood, rock caves, and dense vegetation. Ghost catfish thrive in densely planted environments, so consider live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, or Java fern.
- Lighting : Ghost Catfish prefer dimly lit environments. Invest in an aquarium light with adjustable settings or use floating plants to diffuse the light.
- Water Test Kit : Regular water testing is crucial to ensure the water parameters stay within the acceptable range. Purchase a reliable water test kit that measures pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
- Ghost Catfish Food : Offer a varied diet that consists of high-quality, small-sized pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like Daphnia or bloodworms.
By gathering these essential supplies, you will be able to create a healthy, comfortable environment for your new Ghost Catfish to thrive.
Ghost Catfish Tank Setup
Setting up the ideal tank for ghost catfish ensures their comfort and longevity, providing them an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Start by selecting a suitable tank size, preferably at least 20 gallons for a small school of ghost catfish, as they are shoaling fish and thrive in groups.
To create a comfortable home, cover the aquarium floor with dark sand or fine gravel substrate. This choice offers several advantages:
- Mimics their natural environment of slow-moving rivers
- Enhances their colors, making them more visible
- Provides a good foundation for live plants
Next, create hiding spots and peaceful areas with driftwood, rocks, and live plants such as Java moss, Anubias, or Amazon swords . Use a combination of:
- Driftwood pieces to create tunnels
- Rocks to form caves
- Live plants to provide shelter and improve water quality
For lighting, ghost catfish prefer dimmer environments. Opt for subdued lighting with LED lights and use floating plants to maintain low light levels.
Maintain a constant water temperature between 72 and 82°F (22 to 28°C) , using a reliable heater and thermometer in the aquarium. Ghost catfish also require a gentle water flow that replicates their natural river habitats. Choose an effective but gentle filter, possibly an adjustable flow or sponge filter.
Finally, add a lid to the tank to prevent ghost catfish from jumping out. With these steps, your ghost catfish will feel comfortable and secure in their new aquatic home, allowing them to thrive and display their unique behaviors.
Ghost Catfish Water Requirements
To ensure a healthy environment for your ghost catfish, it’s crucial to meet their specific water requirements. Always maintain optimal water conditions by closely monitoring water parameters and initiating necessary adjustments.
- Temperature: Ghost catfish thrive in water temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) . Use a reliable aquarium heater and thermometer to maintain a stable temperature within this range.
- pH Level: The ideal pH range for ghost catfish is 6.0 to 7.0 . To maintain this, you can use a pH test kit and make necessary adjustments using conditioners, additives, or incorporating natural elements like driftwood.
- Water Hardness: These fish prefer soft water with a hardness level between 2-12 dGH . You can use a water hardness test kit to regularly check the hardness levels and adjust accordingly.
- Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate Levels: Like any other fish, ghost catfish are sensitive to ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Maintain ammonia and nitrite levels at 0 ppm and nitrates between 5-20 ppm . Your go-to tool for this task is a water testing kit.
Regular water changes (around 20-30% every two weeks) will help maintain these water parameters and keep your ghost catfish healthy. Additionally, introducing live plants into your tank will not only make it more visually appealing, but it will also help stabilize water parameters and maintain water quality.
Ghost Catfish Diet and Feeding
Ghost Catfish are omnivorous creatures and thrive on a diverse diet. Since they are shy in nature, it is important for you to meticulously plan their diet to keep them healthy and happy.
Here’s a list of suitable food options for your ghost catfish:
- Live foods: As their natural diet consists of live foods, opt for daphnia, bloodworms, or brine shrimp.
- Frozen foods: You can also provide them with frozen substitutes in case live food is not available.
- Flake or pellet food: Supplement their diet with high-quality flake or pellet food to ensure complete nutrition.
- Veggie treats: Ghost Catfish also enjoy a nibble on blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini occasionally.
Here are some crucial points to remember while feeding your ghost catfish:
- Feeding Time: Create a fixed feeding schedule and stick to it. Typically, feed them twice a day – a morning and an evening meal.
- Avoid Overfeeding: Offer what they can consume within 2-3 minutes. Overfeeding leads to poor water quality and may cause stress and health problems.
- Meal Variation: Rotate between their food choices to ensure a diverse diet.
As a beginner, it’s essential to monitor their feeding habits and make any necessary adjustments. Understanding their preferences and adapting their feeding plan accordingly keeps your ghost catfish healthy, active, and thriving in your aquarium.
Ghost Catfish Care Schedule
A well-structured care schedule is essential for maintaining a healthy and thriving environment for your ghost catfish. Following this routine can help you become a successful ghost catfish owner.
Daily Tasks :
- Check and maintain water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C) by monitoring with a reliable aquarium thermometer.
- Observe your fish for any signs of stress, illness, or unusual behavior, ensuring their well-being.
- Feed your ghost catfish once or twice a day with a suitable diet that comprises small pellets, flakes, live, or frozen foods.
Weekly Tasks :
- Perform a 10-20% partial water change to maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of harmful compounds.
- Check and clean the filter properly to prevent the growth of dangerous bacteria and ensure efficient filtration.
- Test water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels) to maintain a stable environment; optimal pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Monthly Tasks :
- Inspect and maintain all aquarium equipment such as heaters, filters, and lights to avoid malfunctions.
- Thoroughly clean your tank, including decorations, substrate, and glass, using appropriate aquarium-safe cleaning products.
Remember that consistency in following the care schedule is imperative. Adjusting your routine as per the specific needs of your ghost catfish can help them thrive and live a long, happy life in their aquatic home.
Ghost Catfish Health Problems
Ghost catfish, like any other fish species, can have their share of health problems. However, most of these issues can be prevented or treated with proper care and attention . Here are some common health issues you might encounter with your ghost catfish:
- Ich (Ichthyophthirius): This parasitic infection causes white spots to appear on a fish’s body. To treat ich, raise the tank temperature to 86°F (30°C) for a few days and use an ich treatment product available at pet stores.
- Fungal Infections: Ghost catfish may develop fungal infections that manifest as fuzzy, white patches on their bodies. These can be treated with antifungal medications found at pet stores.
- Bacterial Infections: These infections can lead to issues like bloating, pop-eye, and ulcers. They can often be treated with antibacterial medications or aquarium salt, but always consult a veterinarian for the proper course of action.
To minimize health problems in your ghost catfish, follow these preventative measures:
- Maintain Optimum Water Quality: Keeping the tank clean and ensuring proper water parameters will prevent most health issues. Regular water changes and tank maintenance are crucial for preventing bacterial and fungal growth.
- Avoid Overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and contribute to bacterial and fungal infections. Only feed your ghost catfish an appropriate amount of food twice a day.
- Quarantine New Tank Mates: Before introducing new tank mates, keep them in a separate quarantine tank for around 3 weeks. This gives you time to observe them for any signs of illness and allows them to adjust to your tank conditions.
- Monitor Your Fish’s Behavior: If you notice any abnormal behavior such as lethargy, rapid breathing, or loss of appetite, this could indicate a health issue. Addressing these problems early on can help prevent them from escalating.
By staying attentive and providing your ghost catfish with proper care, you can minimize their risk of encountering health issues and ensure they live a long and healthy life.
Ghost Catfish Tank Mates
Choosing the right tank mates for your ghost catfish is crucial to ensure a harmonious and stress-free environment. Remember that these fish are shy, relatively slow swimmers, and need tank mates that will not cause them stress or out-compete them for food.
Consider the following tank mates for your ghost catfish:
- Peaceful Community Fish: Look for non-aggressive, smaller fish that share similar water requirements, such as rasboras, tetras, danios, and endlers. Avoid larger and aggressive fish that might pose a threat to your ghost catfish.
- Bottom Dwellers: Ghost catfish tend to swim in the middle to upper parts of the tank, so it can be useful to have tank mates that occupy the lower parts of the tank. Consider small species of catfish like Corydoras, Otocinclus, and loaches such as the Kuhli loach.
- Algae Eaters: Ghost catfish will not help with controlling algae growth, so consider adding fish like hillstream loaches, siamese algae eaters, or even snails and shrimps to help maintain a clean environment.
- Gouramis and Bettas: These fish can be suitable tank mates for ghost catfish, but ensure the individual’s temperament will not be an issue. Bettas, especially, have varying levels of aggression and may need to be kept separately if there is a problem.
The ideal tank mates for ghost catfish should be non-aggressive, smaller fish such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras. Ghost catfish are compatible with algae eaters like hillstream loaches or snails and shrimps, and certain gouramis and bettas with compatible temperament.
Always be cautious when introducing new tank mates and be prepared to separate if there are any issues.
Ghost Catfish Breeding
Breeding Ghost Catfish can be quite challenging, especially for beginners. However, with the right knowledge and approach, you can successfully breed these fascinating creatures in your aquarium.
First, it is essential to determine the sex of your Ghost Catfish . Males tend to have a slimmer body, while females are often rounder and larger, especially when carrying eggs. To encourage breeding, you need to provide a stress-free environment by maintaining clean water and ensuring there is plenty of hiding space for the catfish.
Create the breeding area by:
- Adding dense plants, spawning mops, or clean mesh material for the catfish to lay eggs.
- Mirroring the natural breeding conditions by lowering the water temperature to around 75°F (24°C), and keeping the tank lightly illuminated .
- Gradually lowering the water hardness .
Feeding your Ghost Catfish a nutrient-rich diet can also increase the chances of them breeding. Incorporate live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, in addition to their usual diet.
Observe closely for signs of breeding behavior. If successful, females will lay translucent eggs on the plants or spawning materials in the tank. Once the eggs are laid, remove the adult catfish to prevent them from eating the eggs, as they have no interest in caring for their offspring.
Hatching typically takes 2 to 5 days , during which you should maintain the water conditions. Once the fry hatch, feed them infusoria, liquid fry food, and baby brine shrimp as they grow.
Keep in mind that breeding Ghost Catfish is not easy, and it may take several attempts before you experience success. However, following these guidelines will help you increase the chances of breeding these captivating fish in your aquarium.
Caring for ghost catfish can be a rewarding experience for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike. With the right supplies, tank setup, and attention to their dietary and water needs, your ghost catfish will thrive in their aquatic environment. If you have any questions or experiences you’d like to share, please feel free to leave a comment below!
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Glass Catfish Care: Food, Tank Mates, Lifespan & More!
- by Millie Sheppard
- Updated: July 1, 2023
- 79.7K views
The glass catfish (sometimes referred to as ghost catfish) is one of the more interesting little critters you can get for your tank.
Due to their completely see-through bodies, they’ve become a sought after freshwater fish for anyone looking to add something a little different to their aquarium.
Glass catfish are also pretty easy to care for. As long as you know the basics it’s not that challenging to keep these fish happy and healthy.
In this guide we’ll give you the complete rundown on glass catfish care and what you need to know. We’re talking food, tank mates, lifespan, and more.
It’s all in here!
Table of Contents
Water parameters, what to put in their tank, common possible diseases, food & diet, behavior & temperament, the importance of a school, species summary.
The glass catfish (scientific name: kryptopterus vitreolus ) is a freshwater fish that is native to Thailand. There have been some reports of these fish being found in Malaysia and even Cambodia, but the validity of these claims is iffy.
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Rivers that feed into the Gulf of Thailand are where you can usually find them, but there is also a condensed group of them that dwell in the river basins of the Cardamom Mountains.
These rivers and streams are usually fairly open with an average rate of flow (not too fast, not too slow). While they’re not as effective at navigating murky waters as some other aquarium catfish , they still have barbels that they use to get a feel for their surroundings.
One thing that makes glass catfish unusual compared to many other catfish is that they aren’t bottom-dwelling fish . These fish spend most of their time swimming and exploring the middle areas of the water instead of camping out at the bottom.
This makes them a very fun fish to own because they’re a bit more active and spectactor-friendly than most catfish. This is great because it gives you more time to observe and enjoy their interesting appearance as an owner!
The average glass catfish lifespan is between 7 and 8 years. This is a solid amount of time that really lets you enjoy and bond with these fish.
Their lifespan can be shortened significantly if you don’t provide them with the proper tank conditions. Make sure you stay consistent and follow the recommendations in this guide if you want to ensure that they live as long as possible.
Author Note: The genetics and state of the fish when you purchase them will also impact their lifespan. If you buy a fish that grew up in subpar conditions the best care in the world might not get them to the 7-8 year mark. Always buy from reputable sellers.
The main draw of the glass catfish is the unique appearance. As their name suggests, these fish are totally translucent.
The benefit of this is primarily to make them more difficult for predators to find (just like the ghost shrimp ).
They are so see-through that it’s almost shocking at first. You can clearly see their internal organs and everything that’s going on in their system!
One of the things that stands out the most on these fish is their spine. Because they’re so clear, you can view their entire spine which runs from their head to the base of their caudal fin.
Their fins are almost impossible to see while they’re swimming around. Looking at pictures is a better way to get an idea of their structure.
Ghost catfish have forked caudal fins and no dorsal fin. Their small pectoral fins give them most of their vertical mobility and if you look closely you can see them moving quickly while they swim!
Their organs are also quite visible. They sit behind their eyes near the base of their pectoral fins and for the most part look like a dark silvery mass.
Glass catfish have barbels that extend straight out from their heads unlike some other catfish whos barbels droop back behind them while they swim.
The average glass catfish size is 4-6 inches in length. This is larger than a lot of aquarists think, maybe because a lot of translucent fish are on the smaller side.
Their size is impacted by genetics and the quality of care they receive.
Glass Catfish Care
Glass catfish care is fairly simple once you know the basics. There aren’t any major hurdles you need to navigate. Instead, it’s all about being consistent and providing them with the right tank, water, and food conditions.
The rest of this guide will explore the essentials of glass catfish care and what you’ll need to know if you want yours to thrive.
Glass catfish do best with a minimum tank size of 30 gallons. This is assuming that you have around 5 of them in the same tank since they don’t do well when kept alone (we’ll cover that in more detail in the tank mates section).
This tank size will allow them to comfortably swim around and have the necessary social engagement and safety that a school provides. We don’t recommend going with a smaller tank because that would require you to keep less of them together (which comes with other disadvantages).
While glass catfish care is very straightforward, their strict required water parameters are definitely something you need to take seriously. The acceptable windows in these levels is not wide at all, which means the margin for error is slim.
This requires you to have a strong understanding of these fish in general, and familiarity with adjusting levels on the fly. While this might sound intimidating at first, it’s something you’ll get better with over time.
If you don’t think you’re ready for that yet it might be a good idea to try keeping some hardy fish for a while longer. This is a good way to practice maintaining and adjusting levels without risk.
- Water temperature: 77°F is the perfect target, but don’t let the water shift outside of the 75°F to 80°F range.
- pH levels: 6.5
- Water hardness: 8-10 dGH
Author Note: It’s important that you perform regular tests to be sure everything is stable. Any shifts you notice need to be met with immediate correction.
When putting together the ideal habitat for ghost catfish you’ll want to consider their natural environment so you can mimic it as best as possible.
Their tanks should have plenty of open space where they can swim freely. Too many obstacles or obstructions will hinder this, so make sure they don’t feel too cramped.
You’ll also want to make sure there are some plants in their aquarium as well. The waters that ghost catfish come from have plenty of plant life that they can use for hiding spots.
Replicating this in their tank will give them a sense of comfort and safety since plants are something they’re familiar with using for shelter. Try plants like hornwort or java moss for starters.
A soft substrate is another thing you’ll want to use when setting up a tank for glass catfish. These fish aren’t as durable as many other catfish so anything that can cut them, likely will. Keep them safe and reduce the risk of infection by providing them with a nice sandy substrate if possible.
Lastly, you’ll want to consider water flow too. You don’t need to do anything special to give them the right amount of current, just know that they can’t have static water. The currents in their natural habitat are on the moderate side of things, so any average flow setup will work fine.
Glass catfish care can seem a little intimidating if you just look at their recommended water parameters, but it’s all downhill from there. There aren’t any species-specific diseases that you need to worry about when it comes to these fish.
Just make sure to give them a balanced diet of high-quality food and maintain the quality of their water. If you do this you’ll greatly reduce the risk of them developing any of the common health issues that afflict freshwater fish.
Glass catfish food in captivity should mimic their diet in the wild as much as possible. This will be accomplished with a variety of food sources to achieve a balanced diet.
A strong flake or pellet food is a great place to start and it’s something you’ll be giving them every day. This food will serve as the backbone of their diet and ensure that they’re getting their essential nutrients.
Some high protein sources such as bloodworms , brine shrimp, and daphnia are all great additions as well. You don’t want to feed this to your ghost catfish too often, but a few times a week should be fine. This will make sure that they get additional enrichment from the variety (you can go frozen or live) and they’ll also never be in a protein deficit.
Author Note: Always keep an eye out for the possibility of over or underfeeding. The natural behavior of this fish means that it can be a little tricky to see if they’re eating or not. Monitor your glass catfish closely when you first get them to make sure they’re getting enough food.
The behavior of glass catfish is something that surprises many people at first. Unlike most catfish, these creatures are very active swimmers and don’t spend much time near the substrate at all.
Instead, they will gravitate more toward investigating the middle of the tank when they’re not ducking in and out of whatever plants you have in the aquarium.
Glass catfish are also very peaceful. Despite their fairly active nature, they’re fish that want to mind their own business and not start trouble with any other animals in the tank. This is great because it gives you a lot of options when it comes to finding tank mates (more on that in the following section).
Your glass catfish will also stick to their school, so it’s very uncommon to see one far away from the others. This is why it’s so important to keep them in a group of at least 5 if you want them to thrive.
Glass Catfish Tank Mates
The number of glass catfish tank mates you can choose from is quite high. These fish are fantastic in community tanks that can coexist with a variety of other animals.
The two things you’ll want to keep an eye out for when it comes to finding suitable glass catfish tank mates are size and aggression. Fish that are significantly larger can be a problem because they might view your glass catfish as a snack!
Aggression is also something you’ll want to avoid because the gentle temperament of ghost catfish will work against them. They simply are too peaceful to stand up for themselves.
Here are some great glass catfish tank mates to get you started:
- Kuhli Loach
- Cory catfish
This is by no means every possible tank mate option out there. Feel free to explore and search for other fish that might be compatible. There are tons of options!
The only absolutely necessary tank mate for glass catfish is more of their own kind. These are schooling fish which means they stick together closely for protection.
A glass catfish that’s all alone will live in a constant state of stress which can seriously impact their health and lifespan. Even though it might mean you can keep them in a smaller tank, it’s not fair to the fish.
Aim for a school of 5 or more to keep them happy and healthy. Smaller numbers can result in bullying among the fish or the feeling that they’re not safe.
Breeding glass catfish is something that’s not done very often in captivity. While it has been done successfully, it isn’t common and there isn’t very much information out there about the best approach for this species.
If you are going to attempt breeding glass catfish then a basic understanding of their natural breeding patterns is essential. You will need to use these as guidelines to follow due to the lack of documentation on the process.
The main thing you’ll need to do is condition the tank to encourage the process. Dropping the water temperature a few degrees is a great way to start because it will mimic the time of year when they normally spawn.
Some have recommended phasing in a little bit of freshwater into the tank during this period of time to replicate rainfall as well. While the efficacy of this hasn’t been proven, it’s probably not a bad idea to give it a try given how difficult this process can be.
If you successfully initiate the breeding process then you’ll witness some different interactions between the spawning pair. One of the reported behaviors is the pair getting face to face and touching each other with their barbels. If you see this it’s a good sign!
If breeding is successful you’ll see them deposit their eggs in some of the available plants in their tank (leafy plants are ideal). It should take no more than a few days for the eggs to hatch.
Once they’ve hatched you’ll need to feed them protein-rich foods to help them grow. A common recommendation is baby brine shrimp.
Glass catfish care is a fun and rewarding experience that all aquarists will enjoy. These fish are incredibly unique and enjoyable to watch and will add a totally different dynamic to whatever tank they’re in.
One of the most important things to remember when it comes to keeping ghost catfish alive and healthy is to take water parameters and levels very seriously. This should be your top priority when it comes to this species of fish. These fish are very sensitive to changes in water and are not hardy by any stretch of the imagination.
However, this is something that can be managed as long as you’re consistent and knowledgable about the process. That’s why we don’t consider glass catfish challenging to care for. Outside of the water parameters, they’re super low-maintenance!
They make great tank mates, look great, and have a playful and active nature that all aquarists will appreciate. There’s really no downside!
If you have any feedback about this care guide or suggestions you want to make we’re all ears. Providing the best info possible is all we care about, so any extra help is always welcome!
Millie Sheppard
As an avid Aquarist, Marine Biologist, and PADI Diver, Millie is dedicated to exploring and preserving the wonders of our oceans. She is looking forward to create a career in the field of aquatic ecosystems based on a deep-rooted love for marine life and a commitment to environmental conservation. She is always eager to connect with fellow marine enthusiasts, scientists, conservationists, and publications seeking engaging marine-related content. Feel free to reach out to Millie to: [email protected]
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Ghost Catfish Care Guide: Tank Setup, Tankmates, Breeding, Diet
The ghost catfish is an interesting and unique looking fish. They are native to rivers in Thailand but can now be found in many pet and fish stores across North America and all over the world.
Ghost Catfish require a lot of care and attention when they first come home with you from the store or breeder. The more time you spend getting your tank set-up for them, the easier it will be to take care of them as they grow into adulthood.
The ghost catfish is commonly found in aquariums and pet stores and has become a common fish in the aquarium hobby over the past 20 years. There is a similar fish called the glass catfish or kryptopterus bicirris which is larger than the ghost catfish.
The ghost or glass catfish we are talking about in this article is mainly found in pet and fish stores throughout the world and its proper name is kryptopterus vitreolus .
We can use the name ghost or glass catfish interchangeably in this article because the one you find in your store will be of the vitreolus variety.
As previously mentioned, the ghost catfish is a great addition for intermediate aquarists as well as newbies to the hobby that fully invest in learning and caring for their pet fish. If you are a fish owner that wants the easiest fish to care for, then the ghost catfish might not be for you.
The ghost catfish is easily identifiable as you can see right through the fish. Seeing as the fish is clear or transparent, it is in a sense camouflaged since any colors behind the fish on the other side of a predator make it harder for that predator to locate the fish.
Behaviour (Temperament)
If you ever wanted a fish that was extremely peaceful and keeps to itself, then you are in the right place. Ghost catfish are calm and peaceful and almost never bother other fish. While this is great for tankmates, it can work against the catfish in that being peaceful sometimes attracts bullies.
For this reason, having a small school of ghost catfish will help them be happier in your tank. If you have just one or two catfish in an aquarium, you might find them to be timid and always lurking in hiding places.
When you have a school, there is a much better chance the ghost catfish will swim more freely throughout the tank.
The ghost catfish is a very interesting-looking fish with a transparent body – unlike most other fish. Its body is not as vibrant in color, giving them a unique ghostly appearance.
The ghost catfish has a long and slender look to it with the head being bent near the front of the body, as opposed to straight like other catfish.
Its backside and fins are darkly marked while the rest of its body is transparent from head to tail. They also have short whisker-like barbels around their mouth.
Ghost catfish can grow up to 5” long. Most of the ones you will find in your local fish store will be somewhere around 2” to 3” long.
While it is reported that the ghost catfish can survive up to 7 to 8 years, you must be realistic. Most aquarium hobbyists will not be able to keep them alive much longer than 5. The only way to ensure the longest life possible is to limit the introduction of new fish and to maintain the proper water parameters.
If you keep your catfish in a school and replace them when others die, then you will keep the existing fish feeling happy and safe. This too can lead to a longer lifespan.
Habitat and Tank Conditions
Here is the section most important in keeping a healthy school of ghost catfish alive for as long as possible.
In their natural habitat, the ghost catfish can be found swimming in rivers and streams. They tend to stay away from strong currents so keep that in mind when setting up their tank.
A planted tank with moderate filtration and some open space is a great place to start. You do not need to have live plants, however, they are a great idea for most freshwater fish tanks.
When I say moderate filtration, I should clarify. Having a filter that is sufficient for the tank size is good enough. Having an oversized filter will lead to heavier water circulation and with the ghost catfish, you want to keep the flow to a minimum.
That said, using a powerhead in a ghost fish tank is not recommended, provided the filtration is large enough to circulate the water thoroughly.
The water parameters in your ghost fish aquarium should be as follows.
- Temperature should be in the range of 75 Fahrenheit to 80 Fahrenheit ( 23.5 Celsius – 26.5 Celsius)
- The average tap waters pH in North America is somewhere in the range of 6.5 to 8. It is extremely important to know what pH your fish require and what you are providing for them.
- If the pH is not in the right range, you can purchase water conditioners that will adjust it for you.
As briefly explained already, a planted tank is ideal for ghost fish. Having a moderate quantity of plants in the tank is fine, just make sure to provide lots of open space for the fish to swim. They like to be out in the open and have plants nearby to retreat to if they get scared.
Regarding having plants and hiding places, consider that the ghost catfish has barbels that can get caught on something. Make sure there is enough open space for them to swim freely and safely.
Size of Aquarium
As ghost catfish are schooling fish, so you must account for a school of fish when selecting what size tank to put them in.
I would recommend having at least 5 ghost catfish together. You can have more if you want. I would say that 5 is the least amount you would want in your tank.
Using the traditional method for deciding on the size of fish tank by calculating how many inches of fish you have, if you had 5 ghost catfish that were approximately 2” to 3” in length you would need a tank over 15-gallons.
That just does not seem large enough to me. I would not have 5 ghost catfish in anything smaller than 20-gallon tank, if they were alone with no other tankmates.
There is much debate about the size of fish tanks required for different fish and the amounts of fish you have. Bio-load will always determine if you need a larger tank or if the tank requires more frequent maintenance such as water changes etc.
After all that, the minimum size tank for a small school of catfish should be at least 20-gallons.
Bigger is always going to be better for your pet fish. If you can afford to run a larger tank, then do that. Fish will always appreciate more space to live in.
Common Ghost (Glass) Catfish Diseases
Luckily, there are no diseases specific to the common ghost catfish. They are not impervious to disease, however, just like all other aquarium fish, the common diseases that affect the ghost catfish often result from improper care.
Poor water conditions and poor food can cause the ghost catfish to develop diseases such as freshwater ich and columnaris disease. These problems are easily avoided by following these simple steps:
Perform regular maintenance on your fish tank at least once every week or two (or more depending on how fast ammonia builds up in the tank).
- Keep temperatures relatively consistent at minimum 75-degrees Fahrenheit (23.5Celcius).
- Feed your fish only high-quality flakes or pellets designed for tropical fish.
Tank mates for the ghost catfish will be other small tropical fish that do well in community tanks.
These include, but are not limited too:
- neon tetras
- cory catfish
- zebra danios
- kuhli loaches
- cherry barbs
There is a list of friendly non-fin-nipping fish for you that I could think of off the top of my head!
If you are adding ghost catfish to an established tank, make sure you add a whole school at one time. The fish will be less likely to be bullied by doing it this way.
If you want to know which fish are fin nippers, check out this article .
Ghost catfish are omnivores. This means they must eat both plants and meat. Feeding these fish a variety of foods will ensure they have a long and healthy life.
Flakes, frozen and freeze-dried foods are all okay, just make sure you are feeding them plant based and animal-based foods as well. Brine shrimp, bloodworms, tubifex worms and tropical fish flakes will make up most of their diet.
Breeding ghost catfish is a fun challenge and can be done by just about anyone, if you follow my suggestions below.
Since ghost catfish mostly breed in the wild during the rainy season, you will want to make your fish feel like that is the season they are in. Here are four things you must do to have success breeding ghost catfish.
- The water temperature should be lowered slightly under the recommended lowest tank temperature for ghost catfish which is 75 Fahrenheit. Lower the tank’s temp to at least 73 Fahrenheit . By doing this, you are mimicking the effect of rain accumulating in the river which would lower the temperature of the water. That is number one.
- The next most important thing you can do is add fresh treated tap water to the tank daily as the new influx of cooler water and minerals from the water will mimic rainfall. You might have to swap a bit of water out of the tank which is fine. That is number two. 10% of the tank water being switched out should be enough.
- The next thing to ensure is you must be feeding the fish fresh live food while you are wanting them to breed. There is a lot of activity with bugs and larvae in the rainy season in the wild. Make sure you have 4 to 5 days worth of live food on hand. A week is even better. That is number three.
- You should keep an eye on them as they will hatch in approximately 3 to 4 days. At that point, you will want to catch the fry and place them in a different tank or a fry net to ensure they do not get eaten by any of the grown fish.
Before we are done with the breeding section, we need to talk a bit about identifying male and female ghost catfish. Otherwise, having a tank with just males or females is not going to work.
You can best identify female ghost catfish when there is a large group of them. It is much easier to do this usually when you are looking at them at the fish store. Here is how…
Female ghost catfish will have a slight belly compared to males. It is not always easy to spot unless, you have quite a few swimming together. This larger belly allows the female to carry eggs. You can also tell by the size of the fish. If you have a group of ghost catfish that look to be the same age and there are a couple that are obviously larger, then those are likely females.
It is that simple to identify a female ghost catfish.
Your glass catfish needs at least a 5-gallon tank with plenty of hiding spots that have plants growing on top for shade (provides protection against too much light).
Ghost glass catfish are beautiful, but not exactly the most well-known type of fish. They are also a little more difficult to care for than other types of freshwater fish. But do not worry! This article will provide you with everything that you need to know to properly care for your ghost glass catfish and make sure they live a long, healthy life.
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Ghost Glass Catfish – Detailed Guide: Care, Diet, and Breeding
Kryptopterus vitreolus, commonly known as the Ghost Glass Catfish, is a fascinating fish species that has gained some recognition in the fish-keeping hobby. Despite its relative popularity, this fish is not widely distributed, making it a unique addition to an aquarium collection.
This species is not particularly demanding in terms of care requirements and can be recommended even for beginners. However, it is important to note that the Ghost Glass Catfish’s shy nature and calm behavior may not be suitable for every aquarist.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist, in this article, you will find comprehensive information about Kryptopterus vitreolus that will provide you with the necessary knowledge to successfully keep and care for this intriguing fish species.
Interesting fact : The natural transparency of Kryptopterus vitreolus made it popular as an experimental subject in science. These fish are often used as in vivo models for studies involving circulation, muscle function, pigment migration, neural regeneration, transplantation, visual processing, and even DNA immunization.
Quick Notes about Ghost Glass Catfish
Taxonomy of ghost glass catfish.
The genus Kryptopterus contains several small catfish that exhibit similar morphologies.
In fact, in the early 2000s, there was some taxonomic confusion surrounding Kryptopterus vitreolus and other closely related species, Kryptopterus minor and Kryptopterus bicirrhis. Initially, all these species were misidentified and considered Kryptopterus bicirrhis or synonymous in the past.
In 2013, this long-standing misidentification was resolved when Ng and Kottelat introduced the glass catfish as a distinct species, known as Kryptopterus vitreolus.
Etymology of Kryptopterus Vitreolus
The genus name, Kryptopterus, is derived from the Greek words ‘Kryptos’, meaning ‘Hidden or concealed’, and ‘Pteron’, meaning ‘Fin’.
The species name ‘Vitreolus’ is derived from the diminutive form of the Latin adjective ‘Vitreus’, meaning ‘Made of glass’, in reference to its transparent body.
This name refers to the scale-less and transparent appearance of the fish, which also gives it the impression of having hidden or invisible fins.
Distribution of Ghost Glass Catfish
It occurs in rivers that flow into the Gulf of Thailand and river basins in the Cardamom Mountains. However, due to intra-species confusion, the precise distribution range of this species requires further clarification. For example, there are also unconfirmed reports that his species was found in Malaysia (Penang region).
Habitat of Ghost Glass Catfish
In nature, The Ghost Glass Catfish can be found in a variety of habitats, including stagnant, slow, and fast-moving rivers, as well as murky or turbid waters filled with all types
of aquatic plants.
Description of Ghost Glass Catfish
Distinguishing characteristics of Kryptopterus vitreolus :
- Body shape. It has a laterally compressed, elongated, slender body, and slightly curved tail.
- Color. This species is scaleless. It has a transparent body except for the head. Almost all internal organs are located in the head. Dorsal surfaces of the head and body often contain a yellowish tint. The spinal cord is visible as a distinct dark longitudinal line.
- Barbels . Maxillary barbels on its upper jaw reach beyond the base of the first anal-fin. They act as antennae and help it locate food.
- Barbels . There are two long barbels on its upper jaw (reaching to the 5 th anal fin ray) and short mandibular barbels (about ¼ of eye diameter). Mandibular barbels are very short, approximately one-quarter of eye diameter.
- Snout . Snout length is about 29-35% of the head length.
- Eyes . The fish has relatively large eyes that contribute to its sensitive nature. The eye diameter is about 28-34% of the head length. They are located in the middle of the head, eyes are also visible dorsally and ventrally.
- Fins . Fins are transparent as well. Ghost Glass Catfish does not have a dorsal fin, but a single spine-like ray can be observed as a vestige of the dorsal fin. In contrast, the anal fin (48-55 anal fin rays) is elongated and extends from the pectoral fins to the tail. The caudal fin is strongly forked.
Interesting facts :
- According to the study , the fish shows flickering iridescence throughout the transparent body. When light passes through the tightly packed layers of muscle fibers, it creates a diffraction effect that produces a shimmering appearance.
- Ghost Glass Catfish are very good at sensing magnetic fields. It was shown that they have a specific ampullary organ for that.
Difference Between Kryptopterus vitreolus, Kryptopterus bicirrhis, and Kryptopterus minor
As I have already mentioned, the history of the taxonomy of Kryptopterus species involves a combination of morphological observations, geographic distribution analysis, and molecular studies to clarify its classification and relationship to other species.
Lifespan of Ghost Glass Catfish
Currently, there is no data available on the maximum lifespan for Kryptopterus vitreolus in the wild.
However, if appropriately cared for, these fish can live up to 5 years on average.
Their lifespan greatly depends on the conditions they are kept in, how well you feed them, and how stressful your aquarium environment is for them.
Typical Behavior of Ghost Glass Catfish
The Ghost Glass Catfish are generally known to be peaceful fish. They have a calm temperament and are not known to be aggressive or prone to nipping at other fish.
So, having a group of Ghost Glass Catfish in the aquarium can be beneficial for their well-being. It is generally recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6 or more individuals.
Keeping them in a group allows them to behave more naturally and reduces stress levels. They will feel more vulnerable and behave less actively and socially when kept in smaller groups or alone.
Generally, Ghost Glass Catfish are very calm and not active fish. They will not dart around the tank instead they usually gather together in a tight-knit group around their favorite spot in the tank, minding their own business and not disrupting the movement of other fish.
They also do not exhibit typical catfish behaviors – they don’t dig or uproot what they can.
Ghost Glass Catfish are more active in the dark . However, in the daytime, they are very shy and skittish , especially, in the beginning. Once they are scared, they scatter and then return to schooling. They often hide in the plants or stay behind the driftwood and rarely come out unless it is a feeding time.
Note : Stressed fish may lose its transparent camouflage and become opaque.
At the same time, once accustomed to the aquarium conditions, when kept in a suitable group, their calm behavior can quickly change to highly active during feeding time.
Placement in Tank:
Ghost Glass Catfish usually stay in the top and middle areas of the tank.
- Social: Yes
- Activity: Low
- Placement: Top and middle dwellers
- Peaceful: Yes
- Nippers: No
- Jumpers: Yes
Feeding Ghost Glass Catfish
In the wild, this fish is a micropredator that feeds on small invertebrates and other types of zooplankton.
Like many catfishes, K.vitreolus is not picky when it comes to feeding and readily accepts
most foods given to aquarium fishes
In an aquarium, they will usually accept food of all kinds (live, dry, or freeze-dried) as long as it is adapted to their mouth size. A varied and balanced diet is always recommended.
Ghost Glass Catfish are not picky eaters, they will eat live food :
- brine shrimp (artemia salina) ,
- artemia nauplii ,
- fruit flies,
- mosquito larvae ,
- detritus worms
- vinegar eels ,
- grindal worms , etc.
They also accept frozen and commercial food as well, such as ( links to Amazon ):
- Fluval bug bites ,
- Hikari first bites ,
- TetraMin Crisps ,
- any kind of really small crushed-up tiny flake food.
Some Feeding Tips:
Although Ghost Glass Catfish can adapt to feeding during the day, observation of their behavior has shown that these fish become more active during the dark hours. Therefore, an ideal approach would be to feed them at least in the late evening . This is their time.
Use the « five-minute rule ». They are not prone to gluttony and quickly satisfy their appetite.
The main drawback of this feeding habit is that any food that falls to the bottom is rarely picked by them. Thus, if there is no cleaning crew (such as snails or shrimp) it can lead to ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate buildup in the tank. So, do not forget to regularly clean the substrate.
- Diet Type: Omnivore
- Food Preference: Meat
- Feeding Frequency: Daily
Are Ghost Glass Catfish Plants Safe?
Yes, Ghost Glass Catfish are completely plant safe. They will not eat any healthy plants in the tank. This specie does not eat living plant material.
Keeping and Caring for Ghost Glass Catfish
To keep Ghost Glass Catfish healthy and happy, we need to understand their requirements and mimic their natural habitat. Stress will significantly reduce their lifespan.
While this species does not demand overly intricate care requirements, there is one thing to remember – these fish do not tolerate ammonia , nitrites , or nitrates really well.
So, it is still recommended to refrain from introducing them as the first occupants immediately after completing the aquarium cycling process . Wait for at least a couple of weeks until the balance is completely established.
The small size and relatively passive behavior of this fish should not mislead you when choosing a tank size for them.
Ghost Glass Catfish require a large tank, and there are a couple of important reasons for that, such as:
- it is easier to maintain water balance and parameters in larger aquariums.
- it is crucial to provide both hiding places and open areas without vegetation, driftwood, or other decorations for these fish.
Therefore, for a small group of 6-8 fish, you will need at least a 20-gallon (80 liters) tank. One Ghost Glass Catfish for every 2 – 3 gallons.
Important: Ghost Glass Catfish are jumpers! So, it is imperative to take measures, for example: using a tank cover, lowering the water level, and using floating plants, which is essential to ensure their safety.
Water Parameters:
Temperature : Ghost Glass Catfish prefer water temperatures ranging between 7 2 to 79 °F (2 2 °C to 2 6 °C) .
pH : The ideal pH range is 6.5 to 8 . 0 .
Hardness : The recommended general hardness (GH) range for these fish is 3 to 15 dGH . The recommended carbonate hardness (KH) range is 2 to 10 dKH .
Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate : It is important to maintain the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels at 0 ppm, 0 ppm, and below 40 ppm, respectively.
Monitor the water parameters regularly and do water changes every week.
When the light hits them and they turn iridescent, it makes them look really cool. Unfortunately, Ghost Glass Catfish do not like bright light, it makes them stressed and they start hiding.
These fish enjoy remaining still in areas near the surface with dim lighting .
Water flow:
Decorations and Plants:
Ghost Glass Catfish are shy and will appreciate plenty of hiding places, such as caves, driftwood, tall plants, and floating plants. They may retreat to these hiding places if they feel threatened or stressed.
Note : Dwarf water lettuce , Frogbit , Duckweed , and other floating plants are excellent at hiding light and providing these fish with the lighting they prefer.
Related articles:
- Top 7 Floating Plants for Beginners
- Aquarium Floating Plants. Pros and Cons
Breeding Ghost Glass Catfish
Kryptopterus vitreolus is rarely bred in home conditions, to be more precise, there are only a few documented cases of successful breeding them in aquariums.
Almost all fish sold in stores are caught in the wild. For example, Volume of the glass catfish exported
in 2016 was 2,494,033 fish. So, there is a potential risk for populations of this species to become diminished in the future.
Note: Scientists have achieved success in breeding them artificially under laboratory conditions by using hormones to enhance oocyte maturation, followed by ovulation and spawning of fish in captivity.
Ghost Glass Catfish do not have parental care or mate selection or anything.
The females are identified by large abdomens and red sex papillae.
According to some sources, the sexual identification of an individual can be also determined by its size (males are slightly smaller than females), although there is considerable disagreement regarding the accuracy of this method.
It can be presumed that they are seasonal egg scatterers like most other tightly-schooling fishes.
- the fertilized eggs of Ghost Glass Catfish are adhesive eggs,
- the diameter of eggs ranges from 0.75-0.85 mm.,
- all eggs are round in shape and bright yellow in color.
These fish are prolific breeders. Each female can carry from 100 to 700 eggs.
Incubation:
The incubation period for fertilized eggs to hatch is around 21.30 h at 77 – 79°F (25 – 26°C) water temperature.
The newly-hatched larvae are about 2.5 mm in length. For the first 3 days, larvae consume the yolk. They grow pretty fast.
Ghost Glass Catfish and Suitable Tankmates
The Ghost Glass Catfish are peaceful and delicate fish. It is important to choose tankmates that are compatible in terms of size, temperament, and water parameters. Here are some suitable tankmates for Ghost Glass Catfish:
If you still decide to keep this species in community tanks , some good options include: Platies, Neons , Endlers , Pygmy Cory , Danio Rerio , Guppy, Harlequin Rasboras , Dwarf Chain loaches , Swordtails , Southern platyfish , Mollies, etc.)
At the same time, it is important to understand that this species is a micro-predator, and it is not advisable to keep them in an aquarium with other fish that may have fry, as the catfish will prey on them. For instance, in one aquarium, Ghost Glass Catfish nearly wiped out all the guppy fry.
Dwarf shrimp
It is not recommended to keep Ghost Glass Catfish with dwarf shrimp . These fish will leave alone adult shrimp but they will definitely hunt for shrimplets .
Freshwater snails
Ghost Glass Catfish will not bother snails.
In fact, freshwater snails can make good tankmates for this species, as they help keep the tank clean by consuming uneaten food and algae.
- Large and/or aggressive, and/or boisterous fishes.
- Keep them away from all types of crayfish and most types of freshwater crabs .
Related article:
- Can You Keep Crayfish With Other Fish?
- Aquarium Crabs and Tankmates. Possible or Not?
In Conclusion
The Ghost Glass Catfish are one of the most unusual members of the catfish family. They have a truly fascinating appearance, making them a mesmerizing sight in an aquarium.
However, if you are fond of colorful and active fish that strive to always be in sight, this particular species may not be suitable for you.
Ghost Glass Catfish are very calm fish that more closely resemble ghosts hiding in a corner than vibrant and boisterous fish.
References:
- London, Sydney, and Helene Volkoff. “Cloning and effects of fasting on the brain expression levels of appetite-regulators and reproductive hormones in glass catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus).” Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology228 (2019): 94-102.
- London, Sydney. “The neuroendocrine control of feeding and reproduction in zebrafish (Danio rerio) and glass catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus).” PhD diss., Memorial University of Newfoundland, 2018.
- Ng, Heok Hee, and Maurice Kottelat. “After eighty years of misidentification, a name for the glass catfish (Teleostei: Siluridae).” Zootaxa3630 (2013): 308-316.
- Khunjaroenrak, Waranyu, and Supat Ponza. “Embryonic and larval development of glass catfish Kryptopterus vitreolus (Ng and Kottelat, 2013).” Journal of Agricultural Research and Extension37, no. 1 (2020): 29-39.
- Khunjaroenrak, Waranyu, Pattreeya Ponza, and Supat Ponza. “Induced Breeding of Glass Catfish, Kryptopterus vitreolus (Ng and Kottelat, 2013).” Journal of Fisheries and Environment43, no. 3 (2019): 19-29.
- Ng, Heok Hee, and Maurice Kottelat. “A name for the glass catfish (Teleostei: Siluridae) revisited.” Zootaxa3640, no. 2 (2013): 299-300.
- Hunt, Ryan D., Ryan C. Ashbaugh, Mark Reimers, Lalita Udpa, Gabriela Saldana De Jimenez, Michael Moore, Assaf A. Gilad, and Galit Pelled. “Swimming direction of the Glass Catfish, Kryptopterus bicirrhis, is responsive to magnetic stimulation.” bioRxiv(2020): 2020-08.
- Fan, Xiujun, Xuezhi Zheng, Tong An, Xiuhong Li, Nathanael Leung, Bin Zhu, Tan Sui, Nan Shi, Tongxiang Fan, and Qibin Zhao. “Light diffraction by sarcomeres produces iridescence in transmission in the transparent ghost catfish.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences120, no. 12 (2023): e2219300120.
Common Names: Glass Catfish, Ghost Catfish
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Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus): Ultimate Care Guide
Glass catfish facts.
- Glass Catfish are a popular freshwater pick for the home aquarium due to their translucent coloration. You can see right through their bodies to their organs underneath their scales.
- Glass Catfish use their coloration to their advantage as it renders them virtually invisible to predators.
- Glass Catfish are schooling fish. They swim and eat in a school. They do not do well alone, and have to be kept in a minimum grouping of at least 5 Glass Catfish.
The most distinguishing feature of the Glass Catfish is their transparent color, and almost completely see-through aside from some black markings around their faces. They have small, black eyes, and long barbels that extend outward. Their barbels help them locate food in the water and in the substrate, while their transparent coloration helps them avoid predators. From a distance Glass Catfish are virtually invisible. It is quite shocking to look at them because you can see their internal organs and even their spinal cord through their skin.
Glass Catfish Care
Glass Catfish are not the easiest fish to care for, nor are they the hardiest fish that you can keep as they don’t do well with changes in their water parameters. The best way to care for Glass Catfish is to make sure that their care remains consistent. Establish a regular cleaning routine, monitor their water parameters frequently, and perform regular water changes to make sure that their tank remains suitable for them.
Tank Requirements
Glass Catfish do not do well when kept alone, and must be kept in a group of at least 5 in the same tank together. A small grouping of 5 Glass Catfish requires a tank of at least 30 gallons or more if you have the space. Each additional fish that you add to the school after that, you also need to add 5 more gallons to the tank. This will keep your tank from overcrowding. Glass Catfish do best when kept at a steady temperature of 75F, but they can tolerate a temperature range slightly warmer up to 80F and 6.5 to 7.0 pH. Due to their sensitivity, they do not do well with large changes in their water parameters, and you should establish a regular water changing routine as well as perform regular water checks to ensure that they are being kept in the correct water conditions.
Food and Diet
Glass Catfish are omnivorous. This means that they eat both plant and animal matter. In the wild, their diet consists of zooplankton, small worms, and invertebrates. They also sometimes eat insect larvae and small guppies. Even though they are omnivorous, Glass Catfish prefer meaty foods over plants. In captivity, their diet should closely mimic what they would eat in their natural habitat. Glass Catfish will adapt and eat flaked or pelleted foods, but to offer them a diet closer to what they would consume in the wild, you will need to offer them meaty foods often as well. You can give them frozen, live, or freeze dried tubifex or bloodworms as well to make sure that their nutritional needs are being met.
Glass Catfish are anxious fish, and you might find that they are absent during feeding time. This could be because they are anxious. To coax them to come out to eat, you will want to feed them closer to their hiding spot. Glass Catfish should be fed once a day, and you will want to make sure that you are feeding each fish. It is not detrimental to this species if they are fed a little more food at feeding time, but make sure to clean up any mess that they leave behind so that their water parameters are not affected.
Glass Catfish Size and Lifespan
Glass Catfish are relatively small fish that only grow up to 6 inches at full maturity. Some Glass Catfish only reach around 4 inches in length at full maturity. Their final length is greatly impacted by not only their genetics, but by the quality of care that they receive. This same rule applies to their lifespan. Glass Catfish live in captivity for up to 7 to 8 years. If they are kept in the correct setup, with regular water checks and changes, your Glass Catfish will grow larger and live longer than fish that are not.
Glass Catfish Tank Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Glass Catfish, you will want to keep in mind that they do best when kept in a school of at least 5 fish. Once you have determined the size of the school you want to keep, you then need to make sure that you have the appropriate sized aquarium. Glass Catfish require at least a 30 gallon tank for a small school of 5 fish. You will want to add an additional 5 gallons per fish after that to prevent overcrowding. Glass Catfish are an active but anxious fish. They need plenty of places to roam, but also plenty of places to hide and destress.
Glass Catfish get their food from the water around them as well as rooting through the substrate for it. A fine, sandy substrate will work best as it is soft enough to not damage the Glass Catfish’s sensitive barbels. In the wild, Glass Catfish use their transparency to help them blend into the background of their natural environment as a type of camouflage. They can be found hiding amongst the leaf litter and debris. Even though they hide amongst the debris, they do not eat it, and they will do well in an aquarium that is heavily planted. A densely planted aquarium with minimal lighting is best for Glass Catfish to help them feel right at home.
Glass Catfish are active fish, and this means that they can jump out of their tank. You will want to make sure that you have a secure lid to prevent them from jumping out.
Glass Catfish Breeding
There is not a lot of information about breeding Glass Catfish in the home aquarium. It has been done successfully, but not many times. The breeding habits of the Glass Catfish has not been documented very well in the wild. If you wish to attempt to breed Glass Catfish for yourself, you will want to take into consideration their habitat in the wild. To ensure the survival and success of the fry, you will want to set up a dedicated breeding tank for the Glass Catfish, and make sure that it is heavily planted.
During the wettest season, Glass Catfish spawn in their natural habitat. You can replicate this in your breeding tank by adding in small amounts of freshwater at a slightly lower temperature. During this time you should amp up their feeding schedule and feed them foods that are high in protein up to 3 times per day as this too mimics their natural environment. During the rainy season, there would be lots of food for them available.
When Glass Catfish males and females are getting ready to pair off and spawn, you will see them facing each other and rubbing their barbels together. If you see this happening, that is a sign that you are headed in the right direction to getting them to spawn.
How Do Glass Catfish Breed?
Glass Catfish are an egg scattering species of fish. There is not a lot known about their exact breeding rituals. When the males and females are ready to spawn, they pair off. If you see them facing each other and touching their barbels together that is a good sign that they will spawn. There is not much known about their exact breeding rituals as it has not been studied in depth. When the female is ready, she will deposit her eggs on plant leaves, while the male will come along after and fertilize them. Glass Catfish eggs take up to 4 days to hatch, and once they emerge from their eggs, they are able to eat live food.
Glass Catfish parents provide no parental care to their offspring, and have been known to eat their own eggs and fry. To ensure the survival of the Glass Catfish fry, you will want to set them up in a dedicated breeding tank. This way you can remove parent fish after they have laid their eggs.
How Do Glass Catfish Lay Eggs?
Glass Catfish are an egg scattering species. This means that the female Glass Catfish will lay her eggs in many places opposed to just one. Glass Catfish females prefer to lay their eggs on large plants and leaves.
How to Tell the Difference Between Male and Female Glass Catfish
It is very difficult to tell the difference between male and female Glass Catfish juveniles. It is much easier to wait until they have reached full maturity. Female Glass Catfish will have a more rounded belly compared to the male, and she will also have a slightly larger body.
Glass Catfish Disease
Glass Catfish are susceptible to many of the same diseases as all freshwater fish. Like most captive fish, their health is directly related to how well they are kept. If they are not kept in the correct water parameters, then they will decline quickly. Stress, overcrowding, overfeeding, and dirty water conditions can all make your Glass Catfish become ill rather quickly. It is better to prevent ailments from happening than it is to cure them when they do. It is important to make sure that your Glass Catfish are well kept.
Common Diseases For Glass Catfish
Some of the more common ailments to glass catfish include:
Ich is a parasitic disease that affects the skin of the fish and can be identified by white spots on their body. If caught early enough, it can be treated. If it is left untreated it will spread, and eventually clog the gills of the fish and suffocate it.
Fin rot is an infection in the fins of the body of the fish. If caught early it can be treated. Fin rot does exactly what the name suggests and rots away pieces of the fins of the affected fish.
Dropsy is the buildup of liquid inside the body of the fish. This can lead to the appearance that the scales are popping out or protruding from the body of the fish. In some cases, Dropsy is just a symptom of another problem. Dropsy can be treated if caught early on.
Lice in fish is very different from lice in humans. Fish lice are little crustacean-like parasites that live on the body of the fish. Not only do they cause physical damage to the fish, they can also affect the growth rate of the fish.
Why is my Glass Catfish Laying on the Bottom of the Tank?
Unfortunately, if your Glass Catfish is lying on the bottom of your tank, chances are that it has passed away. Glass Catfish are very sensitive when it comes to their needs, and if they are not being met they will not thrive. A solitary Glass Catfish will be stressed all the time, and will most likely pass away from starvation as it will not eat. They are sensitive, and not recommended for beginners to the fish keeping hobby as they can quickly become ill if their water parameters are even slightly out of balance.
Are Glass Catfish Aggressive?
Glass Catfish are not considered aggressive, and they do well in community tank setups provided that they are still being cared for properly. Glass Catfish are anxious fish that will quickly become ill when stressed.
Are Glass Catfish a Schooling Fish?
Glass Catfish are schooling fish. They have to be kept in a small grouping of at least 5 to keep happy. They can not be kept by themselves as they will be too anxious to eat and starve themselves.
How Many Glass Catfish Should Be Kept Together?
Glass Catfish should be kept in a school of at least 5 fish or more. You will want to keep 5 Glass Catfish in a tank that is roughly 30 gallons, and add an additional gallon for each fish you add to their school.
Can Glass Catfish Live Alone?
Glass Catfish need to be kept in a school. They can not live alone as they will be too anxious and will not come out of hiding, even to eat. They will eventually die from stress, starvation, or some other ailment brought on by stress.
Glass Catfish Tank Mates
Glass Catfish are peaceful fish that are compatible with a variety of other community fish. Here are a few common tank mates to consider, as well as their level of compatibility.
Glass Catfish and Shrimp
It is possible to keep Glass Catfish and Shrimp together. You will want to keep in mind the size ratio of the two species. You will want to house shrimp that are roughly the same size as a fully mature Glass Catfish. Otherwise, the Glass Catfish may see the shrimp as food.
Glass Catfish and Guppies
Guppies are not a good idea to keep with Glass Catfish as they will seek them out for food. In their natural habitat, Glass Catfish often feed on guppies.
Glass Catfish and Angelfish
It is possible to keep Glass Catfish and Angelfish together in the same tank, but you will need to be mindful of the activity of the other fish in the aquarium. If there is too much going on, and your community tank is too active, it is not a good choice for Glass Catfish. Glass Catfish stress out easily, and they will hide until they starve themselves if they are not comfortable with their surroundings.
Glass Catfish and Neon Tetra
Neon Tetras are a good choice for a non-confrontational tank mate for a Glass Catfish. They occupy different levels in the water column, and typically their activities do not disturb one another enough for it to matter. Just make sure that they are being fed correctly and that there is not a competition for food.
Glass Catfish and Betta
If the tank has been set up correctly with plenty of places for Glass Catfish to hide and get away, you might potentially be able to house these two species together. Another way to ensure their success is to find a Betta that has a relatively calm temperament.
Glass Catfish and Goldfish
Goldfish are not a good choice to try and house with Glass Catfish. They do not share the same water parameters, and goldfish produce a lot of waste that could potentially cause harm to the Glass Catfish.
Where Can I Find Glass Catfish For Sale?
If you are looking to purchase Glass Catfish for your home aquarium, you will be able to find them available for sale online from breeders, and some pet stores. You can expect to pay around $10 for a small school of 5.
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Aquarium, Freshwater Fish, Aquariums, Aquatic Plants
- The Complete Glass Catfish Care Guide (Kryptopterus vitreolus)
December 29, 2020 by Robert Brand 1 Comment
The glass catfish ( Kryptopterus vitreolus ), also known as the ghost catfish, or the phantom catfish, is a unique species of small catfish native to Asia. As the name implies, these catfish have a body that is transparent, with their skeletons and internal organs clearly visible. The only time their body will become translucent – turning a milky white color – is during serious illness or when near to death.
The Kryptopterus vitreolus available in the aquarium trade were long thought to be Kryptopterus bicirrhis, but were then later classified as Kryptopterus minor , before finally being identified as Kryptopterus vitreolous in 2013. Both other catfish are only rarely seen in the aquarium trade, with K. minor being especially rare.
The glass catfish inhabits a narrow area of coastal drainages in Thailand, living primarily in streams and rivers. It can be found in slow-moving and standing water, with many being found in brown water, or acidic black water areas. However, it can also be found in free-flowing, non-blackwater habitats.
A mature aquarium is recommended for glass catfish, as they are often very sensitive to even minor changes in water conditions. They should only be added to a fully cycled and heavily planted aquarium, otherwise, the fish may become ill.
Read The Complete Guide to Cycling an Aquarium here.
Glass catfish are known to form tight schools and should always be kept in groups of six or more. While glass catfish are generally peaceful, they have been known to prey on fish fry and eggs.
While many people recommend glass catfish for community tanks, it can prove difficult to find tank mates who won’t bully them. Even the most peaceful fish will often overwhelm glass catfish with their behavior, sending them into near-permanent hiding.
Glass catfish should be kept in a dimly lit aquarium, with plenty of tall and floating plants to help filter the light. Tall plants also help these fish to feel more comfortable, and they will spend more time out in the open when provided with sufficient plant shelter. It’s not unusual to see an entire school of glass catfish hiding under a leafy plant together.
The aquarium substrate should be a muted color, and a layer of dried leaves along the bottom can be provided to help mimic their natural environment. The tannins that leach from dried leaves have been shown to be beneficial to fish from blackwater environments. However, some leaves can be dangerous for fish, so always identify the leaves before adding any to an aquarium.
A strong filter is a requirement for a glass catfish aquarium, and it’s recommended to strongly over-filter their water. As they require such strong filtration, it’s usually best to use a canister filter. We strongly recommend the Fluval Canister filter , which is a reliable and excellent filter and helps to keep the aquarium water sparkling clean.
Glass catfish are believed to feed on small invertebrates and larvae in their natural environment. However, they haven’t been adequately studied to state that with certainty at this moment.
However, these fish’s mystery diet isn’t a problem, as most will accept dried fish food in the aquarium. One of the best foods you can offer them is Hikari Micro Pellets . This food provides essential nutrients and is ideal for smaller aquarium fish like the glass catfish.
If a glass catfish won’t accept dried fish food, they should be offered live and frozen food instead. Frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and cyclops will all be greedily accepted. Some good live food options to offer them are live mosquito larvae (illegal to culture in some areas), daphnia, blackworms, and gutted loaded brine shrimp.
Over time, any fish who won’t accept dried fish food can be transitioned from the live and frozen foods to store-bought foods. A good strategy is to mix the dried food in with the frozen food and then slowly reduce the amount of frozen food over time. Eventually, the fish should be eating dried foods without any difficulties.
The information regarding glass catfish breeding is inconsistent at best. While a report from 2013 stated that no glass catfish were being bred in captivity and all the fish available in the aquarium trade were wild-caught, a more recent report from 2019 claimed the majority of the fish for sale were being bred in Asian fish farms.
However, while it may be true that they are being bred on fish farms, there is no reliable information or recorded instances of these fish being bred in captivity.
Tank Mates for Glass Catfish
While several species of fish can be kept with glass catfish – especially fish who inhabit similar water habitats– it’s usually best to keep glass catfish in a species only tank.
But if someone is determined to keep these fish in a community tank, there are a few fish that should make good tank mates. These include neon tetras , cardinal tetras , and harlequin rasboras . Larger fish should be avoided as they tend to out-compete and threaten glass catfish.
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Glass Catfish Care – Complete Care Guide For Your Freshwater Fish In The Tank
Glass catfish, also known as Kryptopterus bicirrhis, are a popular and unique addition to freshwater aquariums. These fascinating fish are known for their transparent bodies that make them appear almost invisible in the water. Their unique physical features and peaceful demeanor make them a favorite among aquarists. Glass catfish are also relatively easy to care for and can coexist with other peaceful fish in a community tank.
In this blog post, we will explore the physical characteristics, habitat and behavior, feeding and nutrition, breeding, and common health issues of glass catfish to help you provide the best care for these fascinating fish. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarium hobbyist or just starting out, read on to learn more about these captivating creatures.
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Glass Catfish Overview
The Glass Catfish, also known as the Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish , belongs to the family of skeleton catfish . This family encompasses several different species, with the Kryptopterus bicirrhis being the most popular initially, but was later identified as a misidentification. The Kryptopterus vitreolus, which is suitable for beginners, is now the most popular species in the aquarium hobby. The older title of Kryptopterus bicirrhis is now reserved for the larger and more aggressive Glass Catfish, which are rare in the trade.
Glass Catfish get their name from their transparent body, which allows you to see their bones and organs. The scientific name, Kryptopterus, comes from the Greek word “kryptos,” meaning hidden, and “pterýgio” (fin). This refers to their hardly visible tail fin. Unlike most catfish that cling onto rocks or feed on the bottom, Glass Catfish are free-swimming fish that school together. They are peaceful by nature and timid, especially when first introduced to a new tank, but will become more active and rise to the middle of the tank after a few weeks.
Plants are essential for Glass Catfish as they provide hiding spots and block bright, direct light, which they tend to avoid. With proper care, Glass Catfish can live up to 8 years, bringing an amazing energy to any tank they inhabit.
Glass Catfish Physical Characteristics
Glass catfish appearance and size
Glass catfish are known for their unique physical characteristics and transparent body that makes them almost invisible in the water. They have a slender and elongated body with a slightly flattened belly. Their body is mostly transparent, allowing you to see their bones and organs, but they have a silver or white stripe running along their lateral line from the gills to the tail. Glass catfish have two long barbels, or whiskers, that extend from their mouth. These barbels help them to navigate and locate food.
In terms of size, glass catfish are relatively small and typically grow up to 4-5 inches in length when fully matured . Juvenile glass catfish may be even smaller, around 1-2 inches in length. While they may be small in size, they are fascinating to watch due to their unique transparency and graceful movements in the water.
Differences between male and female glass catfish
Distinguishing between male and female glass catfish can be quite difficult, as they have no obvious external differences. However, there are a few subtle differences that can help identify their gender.
One of the most reliable ways to determine the sex of glass catfish is to observe their behavior during breeding . During breeding, males will chase females and display more intense colors and behaviors . Additionally, females will become more plump with eggs, which can be observed by a slight bulge in the belly area.
Another way to differentiate between male and female glass catfish is to observe their dorsal fins . Males typically have a more pointed and elongated dorsal fin, while females have a shorter and rounder dorsal fin. However, this method is not always reliable and can be challenging to discern without a trained eye.
Glass Catfish Habitat And Behavior
Glass catfish natural habitat
Glass catfish are native to Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos . They are commonly found in the Mekong River basin and other slow-moving, clearwater streams and tributaries in the region.
In the wild, glass catfish typically inhabit areas with dense vegetation and low to moderate water flow . They are known to form large schools and swim near the surface of the water, feeding on small insects, crustaceans, and other small aquatic creatures.
The water in their natural habitat is usually soft and slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-7.0 . The temperature of the water in their natural environment can range from 75-80°F .
Glass catfish social behavior
Glass catfish are social fish that typically form schools in their natural habitat and in aquarium settings . They tend to swim near the surface of the water and move in a coordinated and rhythmic motion, which is mesmerizing to watch.
In the aquarium, glass catfish should be kept in groups of at least five or more individuals to provide them with a sense of security and reduce stress. When kept in smaller groups, they may become skittish and hide more often, which can impact their health and well-being.
Glass catfish are peaceful by nature and rarely show aggression towards other fish, making them suitable for community tanks. However, it’s essential to ensure that they are kept with peaceful tankmates and not aggressive or territorial fish that may bully or harm them.
Glass Catfish Care (Tank Requirements, Tank Mates,…)
Taking care of glass catfish is relatively easy once you understand the fundamentals. There are no significant challenges that you need to overcome, but rather it’s all about being consistent and providing the proper environment, water quality, and food.
In the following sections, we will discuss the basics of glass catfish care and what you need to know to ensure their optimal health and well-being. By following these guidelines, you can help your glass catfish thrive in their aquarium habitat.
Suitable tank size for glass catfish
The minimum tank size for glass catfish is 20 gallons. This size provides enough space for a school of at least five or more glass catfish to swim comfortably and establish their social hierarchy.
It’s important to note that while glass catfish are small in size, they are active swimmers and require enough space to move around freely. A larger tank size, such as a 30-40 gallon tank, may be more appropriate for a larger school of glass catfish or if they are kept with other fish in a community tank.
Water parameters
Although caring for glass catfish is relatively simple, it’s crucial to take their strict water parameter requirements seriously. The acceptable ranges for these levels are narrow, leaving little room for error.
To maintain these parameters, you need to have a strong understanding of glass catfish and be familiar with adjusting water levels when necessary. While this may seem daunting at first, it’s a skill that can be developed over time.
If you’re not yet comfortable with maintaining these strict water parameters, it’s a good idea to start by keeping hardier fish for a while. This can help you practice adjusting and maintaining water levels without putting your fish at risk.
For glass catfish, the perfect water temperature is around 77°F, with a range of 75°F to 80°F . The pH level should be around 6.5 , and the water hardness should be between 8-10 dGH .
To create an ideal habitat for glass catfish, it’s important to consider their natural environment and replicate it as closely as possible.
Provide them with plenty of open space in their tank, allowing them to swim freely without feeling cramped. Avoid too many obstacles or obstructions that can hinder their movement.
Include plants in their aquarium, as they use them for hiding spots in their natural habitat. Plants like hornwort or java moss are good options to start with, as they provide shelter and comfort to the fish.
A soft substrate is also important to ensure their safety and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using anything that can cut them and provide a sandy substrate if possible.
Lastly, consider water flow in their tank. While you don’t need to provide anything special, static water is not suitable for glass catfish. Moderate water flow is ideal and replicates the currents in their natural habitat.
Ideal tank mates
Glass catfish are peaceful fish that can coexist with other peaceful fish in a community tank. When choosing tank mates for glass catfish, it’s essential to consider their peaceful nature and avoid aggressive or territorial fish.
Ideal tank mates for glass catfish include other small, peaceful fish such as tetras , rasboras, and guppies . Bottom-dwelling fish such as Corydoras catfish or small shrimp can also be good companions for glass catfish.
It’s important to note that glass catfish can be shy and timid when first introduced to a new tank, so providing them with plenty of hiding places such as plants or decorations can help them feel more secure. Once they settle in, they will become more active and confident, swimming in schools and interacting with their tankmates.
Avoid keeping glass catfish with aggressive or territorial fish, such as cichlids or larger predatory fish . These fish can bully or harm the glass catfish, causing stress and potential health issues.
Glass Catfish Diet
Glass catfish are omnivores and have a varied diet in their natural habitat, feeding on insects, small crustaceans, and plant matter. In the aquarium, it’s important to provide them with a balanced diet that replicates their natural feeding habits.
A good diet for glass catfish includes a combination of high-quality commercial fish food , frozen or live foods , and vegetable matter . Commercial fish food can be in the form of flakes or pellets, and should be specifically formulated for omnivorous fish.
Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp , daphnia , and bloodworms can be offered as occasional treats or to supplement their diet. Vegetables such as blanched zucchini , cucumber , or spinach can also be provided as a source of fiber and essential vitamins.
It’s important to avoid overfeeding glass catfish, as they have a small stomach and can quickly become bloated or develop digestive issues. Feed them small portions 2-3 times a day , and remove any uneaten food after a few minutes to maintain optimal water quality.
Breeding Glass Catfish In The Aquarium
Reproductive behavior of glass catfish
Glass catfish are egg-laying fish that reproduce through sexual reproduction. During breeding, male glass catfish will chase the female and perform a “mating dance” to encourage her to lay eggs.
After the female lays eggs, the male will fertilize them externally. The eggs are usually adhesive and will attach to plants or decorations in the tank. The eggs will hatch in approximately 24 to 36 hours, depending on the temperature of the water.
Once hatched, the fry will feed on small organisms such as infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. It’s important to provide them with a separate rearing tank or a breeding net to ensure their safety and proper feeding.
It’s quite challenging to breed in captivity, due to requiring optimal water conditions and the right set up to encourage breeding behavior. Providing them with a suitable tank conditions, such as a planted tank with plenty of hiding places, and optimal water parameters can help encourage breeding behavior in glass catfish.
Taking care of glass catfish fry
Taking care of glass catfish fry requires special attention and care to ensure their survival and proper growth. Here are some tips for caring for glass catfish fry:
- Separate the fry : As soon as the fry hatch, they should be removed from the main tank and placed in a separate rearing tank or breeding net to prevent them from being eaten by adult fish.
- Provide a suitable environment : The rearing tank should be equipped with a sponge filter or other gentle filtration system to maintain optimal water quality. Provide plenty of hiding places such as plants or decorations to help the fry feel secure.
- Feed the fry : Glass catfish fry are small and require frequent feedings of small, live food such as infusoria or newly hatched brine shrimp. As they grow, they can be gradually introduced to small pellets or flakes.
- Maintain optimal water conditions : It’s essential to maintain optimal water conditions in the rearing tank, including a temperature of around 78°F, pH level of around 6.5, and regular water changes to ensure their health and well-being.
- Monitor their growth : Glass catfish fry grow quickly, and it’s essential to monitor their growth to ensure they are receiving enough food and growing at a healthy rate.
- Gradually increase the water flow : As the fry grow, gradually increase the water flow in the tank to help them develop their swimming ability.
- Consider adding aeration : Adding aeration to the rearing tank can help provide additional oxygen to the water and support the growth of happy and healthy fry.
Glass Catfish Common Health Issues
Glass catfish are generally hardy fish, but they can be susceptible to certain health problems. Common health issues that glass catfish may encounter include:
- Swim bladder disease
These health issues can be caused by poor water quality, overfeeding, or other stress factors. Preventing these health issues requires providing the glass catfish with optimal care, including maintaining good water quality, feeding a balanced diet, and monitoring their behavior and appearance for any signs of illness. Regular water changes and providing a suitable environment with plenty of hiding places can also help prevent stress and promote their overall health and well-being.
Video About Glass Catfish
How big do glass catfish get.
Glass catfish typically grow up to 4-5 inches in length.
What do glass catfish eat?
Glass catfish are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods including small live or frozen insects, crustaceans, and vegetables.
Can glass catfish live with other fish?
Yes , glass catfish are generally peaceful and can coexist with other peaceful fish in a community tank.
What is the ideal tank setup for glass catfish?
The ideal tank setup for glass catfish includes a minimum tank size of 20 gallons, plenty of hiding places, and a soft substrate . The water should be kept at a temperature between 72-78°F and have a pH between 6.0-7.5.
How do glass catfish breed?
Glass catfish lay their eggs in plants or on the substrate . The eggs hatch in 24-36 hours and the fry are free-swimming in about 5-7 days .
- Wikipedia – Kryptopterus vitreolus
Annette M. Chaney is an experienced marine biologist with over 20 years of experience as an aquarist and fishkeeper. She started her first aquarium at a young age, filling it with frogs and goldfish obtained from the ten-cent pet store.
Annette grew up caring for and breeding African Cichlids, which led to a hobby in high school that doubled as a profitable means. Attending Reed College gave her time to solidify herself as an accomplished aquarium caretaker with an eye for sales. After that, from 2009 – 2013, she studied at Roger Williams University – one of the most prestigious universities for Aquaculture and Aquarium in USA. She is the founder of AquariumCircle since 2010.
Aquarium Days
Aquarium fish blog, glass catfish care guide: simple tips for happy fish.
Glass Catfish, also known as Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish, are truly one-of-a-kind freshwater fish with their transparent bodies that captivate aquarists and fish enthusiasts alike. If you’re interested in adding these unique creatures to your aquarium, you’re in for a fascinating experience.
Caring for Glass Catfish may seem daunting at first, but rest assured, they’re relatively easy to maintain with proper guidance. In this care guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about providing an ideal environment for these enchanting fish, from their dietary needs to optimal tank conditions.
Your dedication to providing the best care for your Glass Catfish will be rewarded with a visually stunning addition to your aquarium and a chance to observe the fascinating behavior of these delightful, transparent fish. So gear up and start preparing a comfortable home for your new aquatic pets!
Table of Contents
Species Overview
The Glass Catfish is an exceptional freshwater species known for its transparent body, which makes it a popular choice for many aquarium enthusiasts. This fish is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. In this section, we will provide an overview of the Glass Catfish and discuss its various properties.
Below is a table containing essential information about the Glass Catfish:
The Glass Catfish truly is an outstanding addition to your aquarium. Its transparent body and peaceful nature make for a delightful display that will leave you and your fellow fish enthusiasts in awe. Make sure to meet their specific care requirements, such as providing a proper tank size, water conditions, and a compatible environment to ensure they thrive and remain a captivating sight in your aquarium.
Origins and Natural Habitat
Glass Catfish, also known by their scientific name, Kryptopterus vitreolus, are native to South East Asia. They prefer living in vegetated tanks, which closely resemble their natural habitat. This peaceful setup creates a calm environment in harmony with their gentle nature.
In the wild, you can typically find them in slow-moving or still waters, such as rivers, streams, or lakes, surrounded by dense vegetation. These areas provide shelter, food sources, and protection from predators.
To recreate this natural environment in your aquarium, populate it with a variety of live plants, such as Java Fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria. Adding driftwood and rocks can also help create hiding spots and a more comfortable habitat for these lovely creatures.
Remember to maintain water quality, as well as a stable water temperature between 72°F and 80°F, which is vital for their well-being.
In summary, to keep your Glass Catfish happy and healthy, it’s essential to mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible in your aquarium. Provide them with a vegetated, peaceful environment, ample hiding spots, and stable water conditions to ensure their thriving in your care.
Physical Characteristics
Size and shape.
Glass catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus vitreolus, have a unique and fascinating appearance that sets them apart from other freshwater fish. Their body is slender and elongated, averaging around 2-4 inches in length. With two long barbels extending from their mouth, these whisker-like appendages help them navigate and locate food in their environment.
Color and Markings
One of the most striking features of the glass catfish is its transparent body. This unique characteristic allows you to clearly see their bones and internal organs. However, they do have a silver or white stripe that runs along their lateral line, starting at their gills and extending to their tail. This marking adds a visually appealing aspect to their appearance without compromising their main attraction – the transparent body.
Remember to provide an optimal environment for your glass catfish. Keep them in a group of at least five, as they are social fish and may not thrive when kept alone. House them in a tank with a minimum capacity of 30 gallons, and add 5 more gallons for each additional fish. This will ensure they have enough space to swim and explore, allowing you to enjoy their unique beauty and fascinating behavior in your aquarium.
Lifespan and Growth Rate
Glass catfish are fascinating fish, known for their transparent bodies and peaceful nature. These little critters can be an excellent addition to your aquarium, and with the right care, they can live a long and healthy life.
In general, a well-cared-for glass catfish can live up to 8 years. During this time, you’ll have the pleasure of observing their unique appearance and schooling behavior. Remember, to ensure their health and longevity, it’s essential to provide them with the appropriate living conditions and diet.
To encourage proper growth and a healthy lifespan, maintain a stable water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C) in the tank. Glass catfish do best at a steady temperature of 75°F, but they can tolerate a slightly warmer range up to 80°F. Keep the water pH between 6.0 and 7.5, as these fish prefer slightly acidic to neutral conditions.
A well-established filtration system is crucial to keep the water clean and prevent the build-up of harmful substances. Moderate water movement will also help to mimic their natural habitat and keep your glass catfish comfortable.
Another key factor in supporting their growth and overall health is a suitable diet. Glass catfish are omnivores, which means they eat both plant-based foods and small invertebrates. Offer them a balanced diet that includes high-quality flake food, freeze-dried or frozen daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. A good diet will not only promote growth but also maintain their transparent appearance.
In summary, to ensure the health, growth, and long lifespan of your glass catfish, pay close attention to their water conditions, filtration, and diet. By providing them with a suitable environment and proper care, you’ll have a beautiful and unique addition to your aquarium for years to come.
Diet and Feeding
Feeding your glass catfish a proper diet is vital for their health and well-being. These fish are omnivorous feeders, meaning they eat both plant-based foods and small invertebrates. To ensure they get the essential nutrients, try to provide a balanced diet of high-quality foods for your glass catfish.
In the wild, glass catfish consume small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. To keep up with their natural feeding habits in your aquarium, offer them a combination of high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and frozen or live foods like daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. These foods can provide the necessary nutrition and mimic their natural diet.
Feeding times and frequency are also essential factors to consider when caring for your glass catfish. It’s recommended that you feed them once or twice a day, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes. Avoid overfeeding your glass catfish, as it can not only pollute the water quality but also lead to health issues for your fish.
Observe your glass catfish during feeding times to ensure they are eating well. If you notice any change in their appetite or behavior, it could be a sign of stress or illness requiring attention. Keeping an eye on their eating habits helps maintain their health and ensures a comfortable environment in your aquarium.
Remember, maintaining a well-balanced diet for your glass catfish can go a long way in keeping them healthy and thriving within your aquarium. By providing a varied and nutritious diet, you’re setting them up for success and ensuring they live a long and happy life in your care.
Behavior and Temperament
Glass Catfish are fascinating freshwater fish that exhibit a friendly and peaceful nature. They are perfect for your aquarium if you want a harmonious environment. These catfish tend to school together, making a spectacular display as their transparent bodies swim in unison.
As you observe your Glass Catfish, you’ll notice that, unlike most catfish species that primarily stay on the bottom of the tank, Glass Catfish enjoy swimming around at different levels. This captivating behavior adds a dynamic and engaging element to your aquarium.
To ensure your Glass Catfish are comfortable and content in their new home, provide them with plenty of hiding spots and vegetation. This allows them to explore and establish their territory while feeling secure at the same time.
Another important aspect of their behavior is their preference for swimming in groups. It is highly recommended to keep at least five Glass Catfish together in your tank. A sense of security and companionship will be provided through schooling, leading to a happier and healthier fish.
In conclusion, understanding and catering to the behavior and temperament of Glass Catfish is crucial for their well-being and a harmonious aquarium. By giving them an optimal environment and the opportunity to swim in groups, you will be able to appreciate the full beauty and allure of these unique freshwater fish.
Care and Tank Requirements
Caring for Glass Catfish requires attention to specific tank requirements and conditions. In this section, we will discuss the tank size, water parameters, tank setup and decorations, and filtration and aeration needed for the well-being of these unique fish.
The recommended tank size for a small group of five Glass Catfish is at least 30 gallons. For each additional catfish added to the school, you should increase the tank capacity by 5 gallons to prevent overcrowding and ensure a comfortable habitat for your fish.
Water Parameters (Temperature and pH)
Create a healthy environment for Glass Catfish by maintaining the following water parameters:
- Temperature : Keep the water temperature between 72-80°F (22-27°C) for optimal health.
- pH : Maintain a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5, which is suitable for Glass Catfish.
It’s important to regularly test the water parameters and adjust as needed to keep your fish healthy.
Tank Setup and Decorations
To provide a stimulating and natural environment for your Glass Catfish, consider including the following elements in your tank setup:
- Substrate : Opt for a soft, sandy substrate that won’t scratch the delicate skin of your catfish.
- Plants : Add live plants like Java Fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria, creating hiding spaces and improving water quality.
- Hiding spots : Include driftwood, rocks, and caves for additional hiding spaces and security for your fish.
- Swimming space : Ensure at least half of the tank remains open for swimming, as Glass Catfish are active fish that enjoy swimming together in schools.
Filtration and Aeration
A well-functioning filtration system is crucial to maintain water quality and remove harmful substances from your aquarium. Choose a filter with a flow rate suitable for the size of your tank, and clean it regularly to ensure efficient operation.
Aeration is also essential for the health of your Glass Catfish. Use an air pump and air stone to provide sufficient oxygen levels in the tank, promoting the well-being of your fish and maximizing their comfort.
Suitable Tank Mates
When choosing tank mates for your Glass Catfish, it’s essential to consider their peaceful and social nature. They prefer companions with similar temperament and water requirements. Here is an unordered list of some suitable tank mates that can coexist in harmony with Glass Catfish:
Neon Tetras : These small, colorful fish enjoy swimming at different water levels and share a peaceful nature with Glass Catfish. Plus, they both thrive in similar water conditions.
Cardinal Tetras : Another excellent option, they share similarities with Neon Tetras but have slightly more vibrant colors. Like Neons, they also prefer to be in a group of at least six.
Mollies : Known for their unique appearance and compatibility with a variety of setups, Mollies are a solid choice as tank mates for Glass Catfish.
Remember that Glass Catfish are shoaling fish, so keeping them in a group of at least five is crucial for their well-being. Also, avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish, as they might become stressed or become food for their tank mates. By keeping their peaceful nature and water requirements in mind, you’ll create a comfortable aquatic environment for your Glass Catfish and their friends!
Breeding Process
Breeding Glass Catfish can be a bit challenging, but with some patience and attention to their requirements, you can have success. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way.
Step 1: Prepare a separate breeding tank To start, you’ll need a separate breeding tank of around 10-20 gallons. Fill the tank with aged, clean water, and maintain a temperature of 75-80°F. It’s important to mimic their natural habitat by adding some plants and hiding places.
Step 2: Choose healthy breeding pair Next, select a healthy breeding pair of Glass Catfish from your main aquarium. You may have difficulty distinguishing males from females, but generally, males are slimmer and slightly smaller than females. Place them in the breeding tank and observe their interactions.
Step 3: Provide a proper diet Feeding your breeding pair a well-balanced diet is essential. Offer them a mix of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms. This will encourage them to spawn and increase the chances of healthy eggs.
Step 4: Monitor water parameters Keep a close eye on the water parameters in the breeding tank. Stable water conditions are crucial for successful breeding. Ensure the pH level remains between 6.0-7.0, and the water hardness is between 5-12 dGH.
Step 5: Watch for signs of spawning Once the breeding pair is well-established in the tank, observe them for signs of spawning. These include increased activity, chasing behavior, and the female becoming noticeably plumper. If you see these signs, they are ready to spawn.
Step 6: Spawning and egg care Glass Catfish usually lay their eggs on the underside of plant leaves or on the tank’s surface. Provide plenty of plants and leafy surfaces in the breeding tank to accommodate this. After spawning, remove the adults from the breeding tank to prevent them from eating the eggs.
Step 7: Egg hatching and fry care The eggs should hatch within 3-5 days. Once the fry have hatched, feed them infusoria or liquid fry food for the first week or so. As they grow, gradually introduce crushed flakes and micro-pellets.
Remember, a friendly and patient approach will make the breeding process more enjoyable and successful. Good luck with your Glass Catfish breeding journey!
Common Diseases and Treatments
Glass catfish are relatively hardy but just like any other fish, they can also suffer from various diseases. Being knowledgeable about common diseases and their treatments can help you maintain a healthy environment for your glass catfish. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases affecting glass catfish and how you can treat them effectively.
Ich (White Spot Disease): Ich is a parasite that appears as small white spots on your fish’s body. It is one of the most common diseases in fish, but it can be treated easily. If you notice your glass catfish has white spots, increase the temperature of your tank to 82-86°F (28-30°C) over a couple of days. In addition, add a medication specifically designed to treat Ich. Be sure to follow the medication instructions carefully for the best results.
Fin Rot: Fin rot is a bacterial infection that causes the fins to fray and disintegrate. To treat fin rot, start by cleaning your tank and improving the water quality. You can also add antibiotics like tetracycline, kanamycin, or erythromycin, which are commonly used to treat fin rot. Make sure to closely monitor the condition of your glass catfish and provide appropriate care.
Fungal Infections: Fungal infections in glass catfish can cause fuzzy patches on their skin. The best way to prevent and treat fungal infections is to maintain good water quality and cleanliness in your tank. If an infection does occur, you can use an antifungal medication specifically designed for aquarium fish. Follow the directions as recommended by the manufacturer.
Stress and Poor Water Conditions: Glass catfish can become stressed due to poor water conditions, sudden changes in temperature, and unsuitable tank mates. Stress can lead to a weakened immune system and make your fish more susceptible to diseases. To prevent stress, keep your tank water clean, maintain stable temperatures, and choose appropriate tank mates for your glass catfish.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. By maintaining a clean, properly set up tank, you can minimize the risk of diseases affecting your glass catfish. Regularly monitor your fish’s health and act promptly if you notice any signs of disease. With proper care and attention, you can help your glass catfish thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal water temperature for glass catfish.
Glass Catfish thrive in water with a steady temperature of 75°F. However, they can tolerate a slightly wider temperature range, between 75°F and 80°F.
What is the ideal tank size for Glass Catfish?
A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for Glass Catfish, but larger tanks are always better. They are social creatures and do best in a community tank with other peaceful fish species.
What is the lifespan of a Glass Catfish?
Glass Catfish have a relatively short lifespan, typically living from 4 to 6 years in a well-maintained aquarium. Providing proper care, including suitable water parameters and a stress-free environment, will help ensure a healthy life for your Glass Catfish.
How should I maintain proper water parameters?
To maintain proper water parameters for Glass Catfish, keep the pH levels between 6.5 and 7.0. Monitor the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly and perform water changes as needed to keep these values within safe ranges.
Do Glass Catfish get along with other fish species?
Yes, Glass Catfish are peaceful fish that get along well with most other peaceful community fish. Stronger and more aggressive species should be avoided, as they may stress the Glass Catfish, affecting their health and well-being.
How often and what should I feed them?
Feed your Glass Catfish small, high-quality, and nutritionally balanced foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Glass Catfish prefer live or frozen foods. Feed them once or twice daily, ensuring they consume the food within a couple of minutes to avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.
Glass Catfish, scientific name Kryptopterus vitreolus, are unique freshwater fish native to Thailand, known for their transparent bodies. They make a great addition to any aquarium, as they are peaceful and easy to care for.
To ensure their well-being, keep them in a group of at least 5 in a tank of 30 gallons or more, adding 5 more gallons for each additional fish. Remember, creating a comfortable environment and staying diligent about their care requirements will keep your Glass Catfish happy and thriving in your beautiful aquarium.
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How To Care For Your Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus Bicirrhis): Full Care Guide
The glass catfish (also known as the ghost catfish) is among the most fascinating little critters you can get for your aquarium.
Because of their totally transparent bodies, they have become a popular freshwater fish for aquarium hobbyists in search of a unique fish species to add to their home tank.
Glass catfish are also relatively simple to look after. It is indeed quite easy to care for these fish and make sure they are strong and content, while you only need some basic information and skills to do so.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to learn about glass catfish. We will cover things like their diet, aquarium companions, life expectancy, and much more.
Glass Catfish: Overview
The Glass Catfish, officially known as kryptopterus vitreolus, is a Thai-native freshwater species.
This fish is reported to also have been discovered in Malaysia and Cambodia, but the veracity of these statements is questionable.
River systems that lead to the Gulf of Thailand seem to be the waters in which you will find these fish most of the time.
However, another concentrated population of glass catfish exists in the Cardamom Mountains’ River basins.
These streams and rivers are typically open, with a medium current speed.
Even though they are not as good as other fish tank catfish at traversing uncharted water, they do have barbels that help them get a sense of their surrounding environment.
Glass catfish are not bottom-dwellers, which distinguishes them from many other catfish types.
Rather than hanging out at the bottom of the tank, these catfish spend a good deal of their time moving around and trying to explore the middle levels of the tank.
As they are more energetic and spectator-friendly than other fish species, they’re a great deal of fun for the owners too.
This is fantastic since it grants you more moments spent observing and enjoying their unique appearance as an owner!
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy of Glass Catfish is 7 to 8 years, which is more than enough time to relish and form a deep connection with these species.
The genetic factors and condition of the catfish at the date of acquisition will also have an impact on their longevity.
If you purchase a catfish that was raised in poor conditions, even the best treatment on your behalf may not be enough to help them reach their 7th and 8th year of life.
Therefore, it is highly advisable to only purchase your fish from trusted sellers.
Moreover, if you do not create the right aquarium conditions for them, their life expectancy will be reduced, so if you wish for them to have a happy and healthy life, you need to keep on reading to see how to best care for them.
The Glass Catfish’s most attractive feature is its distinct look. This fish is completely translucent, just like its name implies.
The upside of having a translucent body is that predators have a harder time finding them, in the same way, they struggle to locate ghost shrimps.
At a first glance, these fish are almost worryingly transparent. You can plainly see all of their organs and what’s taking place inside their bodies!
Amongst the most striking features of these fish is their backbone. Seeing how transparent they are, one can see their entire spine running from their heads to their caudal fins.
Especially when they are moving around, it’s nearly impossible to actually look and see their fins, so it’s easier to look at some pictures of these fish to observe them.
Glass catfish have fork-like caudal fins, but they do not have a dorsal fin.
Their small pectoral fins provide most of their vertical mobility, and if you carefully watch them, you’ll be able to see these fish swimming at a fast speed!
Their organs can also be clearly seen. They can be seen behind their eyes, next to the base of their pectoral fins, and resemble a black shiny thing.
Moreover, glass catfish have whiskerlike feelers that stretch directly out of their faces, as opposed to other fish species, which have feelers that hang down behind them as they swim.
The typical glass catfish size is 4-6 inches, which means it is bigger than many fishkeepers believe, possibly because many other catfish are of a smaller size.
The glass catfish’s size is determined by genetic factors as well as the standards of care their owners have set for them.
Taking care of your glass catfish is quite an easy task once you understand the fundamentals of caring.
There aren’t really any major obstacles to overcome, as it’s all about consistency and making sure you meet the necessary requirements in terms of tank size, water quality, tank companions, and diet.
The remainder of this article will go over the fundamentals of caring for a glass catfish as well as what you should do to keep your fish strong and healthy.
Aquarium Size
Glass catfish thrive in aquariums no smaller than 30 gallons.
That being said, this number already takes as a given that you have already bought four or five of these fish and want to keep them in the same aquarium, as they love to have fish of their own kind around.
An aquarium with such a capacity will provide them with enough room to freely swim around without bumping into one another but also with a communal space where they can interact whenever they want to.
We don’t encourage you to get an aquarium smaller than that as you’ll then have to separate them from their group and that comes with many drawbacks.
Water Requirements
Though caring for your glass catfish is simple, the precise water requirements they need are something you should properly address.
The permissible windows in these settings are quite narrow, implying that the margin for mistake is very little.
This necessitates a solid grasp of how these fish live and survive in general, as well as experience modifying settings on the go.
And while this may appear scary initially, it’s something that you will get more comfortable with as the time passes.
If you don’t believe you’re prepared for it yet, you may have to try owning some more resilient fish for some time before moving on to owning glass catfish.
This is a safe approach to practice managing and altering settings.
Water Temperature
The Glass Catfish require a temperature of 77°F, and it is very important to keep the temperature within the 75°F to 80°F range.
The Glass Catfish need water with a pH of 6.5.
The optimal water hardness for Glass Catfish ranges from 8 to 10 dGH.
It is essential that you run frequent tests to ensure that all levels and parameters are stable. Any changes you notice must be corrected right away.
Tank Habitat
When designing the optimum environment for the glass catfish, keep their native habitat in mind so that you may replicate it as closely as possible.
Their aquariums ought to have lots of open areas for them to swim around in.
Too many barriers or distractions will make this difficult, so make sure they don’t feel as if the tank is crowded or packed.
You should also ensure they have some greenery in their tank. The waterways from which glass catfish originate are rich in plant species, which they may employ as hiding places.
Because plants are something glass catfish are used to using for cover, recreating this safe space in their aquarium will provide them with a sense of security and protection.
Start with plants like hornwort or java moss .
When installing an aquarium for glass catfish, you also want to choose a smooth substrate. Because these catfish are not quite as hardy as others, anything that can slash them will most likely do so.
If possible, provide them with a good soft substrate to save them from potential scratches and limit their chances of catching infections.
Finally, you should think about water movement. You should not do anything unusual to provide them with the appropriate flow; just bear in mind that they cannot live in still waters.
Because the streams in their native environment are mild, any average flow configuration will suffice.
Potential Health Risks
Seeing what their necessary water conditions are, caring for glass catfish might appear scary at first, but it shouldn’t as the rest of it is a piece of cake.
These species are not prone to any specific illnesses that you should be aware of.
The only thing you need to do is build for them a diet with foods full of nutritional value and maintain their waters clean and bacteria-free.
When keeping your glass catfish in the home tank, you should try to make their meals similar to their natural diet. This can be done by using a variety of food sources to establish a balanced diet.
Firm flakes or pellet food is a good starting point, but it is something that you will be providing them with daily.
This meal will be the basis of their diet, as it can guarantee that they will get all their necessary elements.
Protein-rich foods such as bloodworms and daphnia are also excellent complements. You don’t really want to give this to your glass catfish too frequently, but once or twice a week is good.
This ensures that they receive extra fortification from the variety (you can choose either live or frozen) and that they will never suffer from protein deficiency.
Always be on the lookout for signs of excess or undereating. Because of the fish’s natural activity, determining whether or not they are eating enough might be difficult.
When you initially buy your glass catfish, keep an eye on them to be certain they are eating properly.
It is not a few individuals that are taken aback by the behavior of glass catfish at first.
Unlike other catfish, these species are highly aggressive when swimming, and they spend relatively little time on the substrate.
On the contrary, if they’re not playing around with the aquatic plants you have placed in the tank, they’ll move towards exploring the center of the aquarium.
Paradoxically, glass catfish are also quite calm. Despite their energetic lifestyle, they are fish who like to keep to themselves and avoid causing problems for the other creatures in the aquarium.
This is fantastic since it provides you with several possibilities for choosing tank companions, like the ones we will see in a bit.
Your glass catfish will also stay with their group, which means that it is unusual to encounter one that’s separated from the rest of them.
That’s why, if you wish for them to prosper, you should maintain them in groups of a minimum of five per tank.
Cohabitation
There are a lot of glass catfish tank companions to select from. These fish do well in community aquariums where they may cohabit with a variety of different creatures.
When it comes to choosing good glass catfish aquarium buddies, the two aspects to consider are size and aggressiveness.
Bigger fish can be an issue since they may mistake your glass catfish for food!
Confrontation should also be avoided since the mild demeanor of glass catfish will backfire. They are essentially too calm to defend themselves.
So, to get you going, a few wonderful glass catfish aquarium pals can be Swordtails and Molly fish.
This is, of course, nothing but two suggestions out of the dozens on the list of aquarium buddy choices.
Feel free to investigate and look for other species that could be suitable, as there are numerous alternatives!
Glass Catfish Groups
Additional glass catfish are the only aquarium mates that are definitely necessary. Because these are herding fish, they group together for safety.
A glass catfish that is left alone will experience persistent anxiety, which can have a negative effect on its wellness and lifetime.
Although you can always keep them in a smaller aquarium, that does not mean that it will do them good.
To keep them alive and content, opt for a school group of five or more glass catfish.
Fewer numbers in a group might lead to discriminatory behaviors between them or the belief that the fish are unsafe which will lead to more stress.
Glass catfish reproduction is a rare occurrence in captivity. Although it has been accomplished, it is not frequent, and there are very few details regarding the optimum strategy for this creature.
If you want to try reproducing glass catfish, you need to first learn about their native breeding practices.
Given the lack of knowledge of the procedure, you will have to utilize the following guidelines to follow.
The most important thing to do is prepare the aquarium to facilitate the action.
Lowering the temperature of the water a few points is a good starting point as it will simulate the season of the year when they breed.
Some people have suggested introducing a little amount of freshwater into the aquarium during that same period of time to simulate rains.
Although the usefulness of this practice has yet to be demonstrated, considering how tough this procedure can be, it’s perhaps not a terrible idea to put to the test.
When you effectively commence the reproduction process, you will observe several exchanges between the breeding couple.
One of the recorded actions is the couple coming face-to-face and rubbing their barbels with one another, which is a positive indication that your plan is working!
If the fertilization is fruitful, you may notice them depositing their eggs in a few of the plants in their aquarium, so make sure to have some leafy plants in these as that is what they prefer.
Then, you have to wait for a couple of days until the eggs hatch.
When the eggs hatch, you must feed the fry with food that is rich in protein for them to develop and become healthy adults in time.
A popular choice of food at this early stage is baby brine shrimp.
The Bottom Line
Glass catfish maintenance is a gratifying and enjoyable experience for all fishkeepers.
These fish are really unusual and entertaining to watch, and they will offer a completely different dynamic to any aquarium they are in.
One of the most essential things to keep in mind regarding glass catfish is to pay particular attention to water parameters and levels.
When it comes to this kind of fish, this should be your primary focus. These fish are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature, pH, and hardness, and are not hardy by any means.
This, nevertheless, is manageable so long as you are committed and knowledgeable about the processes. Besides that, they are very simple fish to keep and care for, which is why we do not regard glass catfish as difficult to look after.
They make excellent tank mates, are visually appealing and have a fun and energetic personality that all aquarium hobbyists love. There is absolutely no disadvantage!
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Everything Fishkeeping
Glass Catfish Care, Size, Tank Mates & Diet
Glass Catfish are very good at making themselves invisible.
This ghostly looking fish looks like a creature from another planet. If you look very closely you can see their internal organs through their clear skin!
Even though they are difficult to spot you might catch just a glimpse of their glittering scales as they swim in your aquarium.
There is so much to know about the Glass Catfish before you give them a home in your tank.
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about keeping this strange and sensational little critter…
Table of Contents
Habitat and Aquarium Set Up
Breeding glass catfish, history and first sighting, frequently asked questions.
There are several different species that are known as Glass Catfish but the Kryptopterus vitreolus is the most common . This is the fish that we will be discussing in this article.
Glass Catfish are endemic to Thailand and are also known as the Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish.
They are the most beginner friendly catfish and are well known for their eye catching appearance and timid personality. These catfish grow between 4-5 inches long and can live for up to 8 years.
Although they are starting to become more popular, they are still quite an uncommon find. You will almost certainly have to purchase them online and most places will label them as a Ghost Catfish.
Expect to pay around $10 for a group of 5.
However, the most difficult part about purchasing these fish is correctly identifying them!
The African Glass Catfish ( Parailia pellucida ) looks very similar in both appearance and size. However, P. pellucida has a black spinal cord and K. vitreolus has a translucent white one.
Juvenile Kryptopterus bicirrhis may be sold as K. vitreolus but they will turn white when they reach adulthood. Real K. vitreolus remain transparent their entire life.
- Experience Required: Aquascaping and schooling fish.
- Nicknames: Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish.
- Color Forms: Transparent.
- Size: 4-5 inches.
- Tank Size: Minimum 30+ gallon.
- Tank Temperature: 75°F to 80°F.
Glass Catfish Care Sheet
These Catfish have a very low tolerance for changes in water quality.
Unstable water parameters also increase the risk of diseases (particularly bacterial infections and dropsy).
A fish with dropsy has a visibly distended abdomen and will be very sluggish as they try to keep up with the others in their school. Most of the time dropsy can be treated by adding marine salts to the tank but this is risky for a fish that is so sensitive to changes in salinity. You will likely need to use an antibiotic treatment.
If they are isolated from their school for any reason then they are likely very sick. They do not willingly separate from the group so you should be concerned if you see one off on their own.
When they are kept in consistent water parameters they are fairly hardy.
Also you should know that these fish must be acclimated at the same time using the bag method .
Unfortunately, it is common for this fish to have difficulty acclimating to their environment and failure is most likely if the water parameters are unstable.
Although these Catfish are omnivores they prefer to eat meaty prey over plants and vegetables.
In the wild they will eat tiny prey that they find in the water and the substrate. These include zooplankton, insects, brine shrimp and small worms.
In the aquarium, a high protein diet is the right way to go.
You can use fish flakes that are specially made for Catfish, along with frozen worms and shrimp. Your fish will also want to hunt for live prey just like they do in the wild. The best options for live prey are: water fleas and other zooplankton, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, grindal worms and bloodworms.
These fish will not eat plants or algae on their own.
However you can encourage them to eat a balanced diet by giving them flakes or pellets which contain algae.
You can feed them:
- Brine shrimp
- Grindal worms
- Mosquito larvae
- Dried worms
- Dried shrimp
Feeding these fish is not always easy.
There are times when they will be too anxious to come out for food so you will need to feed them just outside of their hiding spot.
It is also important to make sure that there is enough food for every fish in the school. They do not eat much but still must be fed once every day. Feed them at a separate time from your other fish so that they will not be disturbed. Do not be afraid to add a little more than you think they might need.
Glass Catfish are very elusive fish that prefer to stay out of the way as much as possible.
They will swim together in a school and even feed together.
In the wild this can confuse predators and help them to survive as swimming in a group can make small fish look much larger.
These fish are very good at turning invisible but you can see them during the quiet hours when they are unlikely to be disturbed by the other fish. You will spot them shimmering around the middle levels of the tank. They will spend a lot of time weaving in and out of plants and decorations.
The larger your school the more active your fish will be.
They will not interact with other fish outside of their school.
In the wild these Catfish live in areas that they can blend into.
They are often found in slightly turbid waters with enough light to let plants grow.
In areas with a lot of leaf litter, a predator may mistake them for leaves or debris floating in the water. Underwater vegetation grows densely in these areas which provides a place to hide when things get scary.
They inhabit the mid-river areas where there is enough space for their whole schools. These areas experience moderate currents and flooding during the rainy season.
To keep these fish you will need a 30 gallon tank.
This will be large enough for a school of 5 (which is the minimum acceptable group size). You should add 5 gallons for each new addition to the school.
The most important part of keeping these fish is maintaining stable water parameters.
Do not allow your temperature, salinity, or pH to rise or fall.
You should keep the water temperature between 75-80°F, ph 6.5-8.0 and water hardness 8-10 dGH.
For substrate you can use soft sand or mud that is enriched with leaf litter and other organic debris.
A moderate current is needed to simulate the fish’s natural environment and this can be achieved by using an external filter. External filters are also quieter and less distressing for them.
When picking out your aquarium lights you should pick an intensity between 3 and 5 watts per gallon.
For decorations you can scatter pinecones, twigs and wet leaves around your tank to match your fish’s natural environment. Plants are the most important decorations and you will want to include a lot of them in this setup. Use middle, background and edge plants to keep the foreground open for schooling.
Glass Catfish Appearance
It is important to know exactly what K. vitreolus look like, so you can make sure you are not purchasing a different species.
Glass Catfish will range from 4-5 inches once fully grown.
Their body is long and slender and looks like a leaf. It is completely transparent but it does shimmer when the light hits it.
When you take a close look at this remarkable little fish you can see their bones and all of their internal organs . All of their internal organs are clustered near their head. You can see the brain, heart, stomach, liver and kidneys.
They do not have scales but you can see the thin outlines of every bone in their body. Their visible spinal cord is white and travels from their head all the way to their tail. The intestine is parallel to the spinal cord, on the ventral side.
Catfish have very small head and a pointed snout. Long, filamentous barbels on their snout help them detect water pressure and even magnetic activity .
They only have 4 fins – a very tiny pair of clear pectoral fins, a V-shaped caudal fin, and a long anal fin that travels down the length of their body.
While it may appear they change colors in certain lights, they do not.
These fish only come in transparent.
There are many copycat species that are often misidentified so we have provided a description of some of the most common:
- Kryptopterus minor: This species is identical to K. vitreolus except for their size. K. minor only grows up to 3 inches and has a slightly rounded snout.
- Kryptopterus bicirrhis: The Indian Glass Catfish is slightly larger than K. vitreolus , and is only transparent as a juvenile. It grows up to 6 inches long and turns white or grey when they reach adulthood.
- Parailia pellucida: The African Glass Catfish grows up to 6 inches in size and has a black spinal cord instead of a white one.
These are schooling fish so they must be kept together.
You can keep them with a school of at least 5, but it is better to aim for a group of 7-12.
Never keep these fish in a group of less than 5. A small group size leaves them vulnerable to anxiety and shock which can lead to death.
These fish are very docile and do not interact with other fish outside of their schools.
Because of this they can get along well in freshwater communities.
In the wild they can be found with Harlequin Rasboras, Kuhli Loaches and other Thailand natives. Fortunately, many of these are available for the aquarium too.
The following fish make great tank mates:
- Harlequin Rasboras
- Kuhli Loaches
- Zebra Danios
- Celestial Pearl Danios
- Dwarf and Pearl Gouramis
- Cory Catfish
- Mystery Snails
- Rabbit Snails
- Bamboo Shrimp
However you should be careful with small invertebrates.
These fish are likely to try and eat them.
You should also watch out for small minnows like Chili Rasboras and small Tetras .
Tiger Barbs and other rambunctious Barbs should be kept away. Their boisterous antics are likely to frighten these peaceful Catfish.
There is no real safe Cichlid species to keep either.
While some will recommend the Angelfish or Kribensis, it is better to leave all Cichlids out of this setup.
Unfortunately Glass Catfish have only been bred in home aquariums a few times.
Most of these successful attempts have been achieved by hormone injections and artificial fertilization.
It is very difficult to do.
Their reproductive habits in the wild are not well researched but we do know that they breed during the wettest part of the year.
You can simulate flooding in your tank by adding small amounts of dechlorinated water and gradually lowering the water temperature from 77-74°F. You should include aquarium plants in your breeding tanks such as Java Ferns and Hornwort.
When getting your fish into breeding condition you should feed them live prey up to 3 times a day.
Males and females will rub their barbels together when they are about to pair off. After this the female scatters tiny clusters of eggs under your aquarium plants.
The eggs take up to 4 days to hatch and the hatchlings will emerge ready to eat small live prey. Unlike most larval fish they do not have a yolk sac after hatching. You should fill your tank with brine shrimp for the fry to eat. As they grow larger you can feed them insect larvae and microworms.
It is unknown exactly how long it takes these fish to reach maturity.
But you can add them to your community tank when they reach around 3 inches in size.
The Glass Catfish has a rather confusing history.
This is because there are several similar species that share the same name and family (Siluridae) .
Way back in 1934 mature K. vitreolus were often confused with juvenille K. bicirrhis .
They were believed to be the same fish and were introduced to hobbyist at the same time.
As the species gained popularity some hobbyist began to notice that some of their Catfish turned opaque as they got older, and others did not.
It was not until 2013 when ichthyologist Maurice Kottelat found the answer.
The transparent adult Catfish were recognized as an entirely different species and an identification key was drawn up in order to tell the two species apart.
After their official classification in 2013, K. vitreolus became the most common Glass Catfish species in freshwater aquariums.
How big do glass catfish get?
Glass Catfish will grow up to 5 inches in size.
Can glass catfish live alone?
A single Glass Catfish cannot survive for very long.
These fish are simply not meant to live on their own and need to be kept in groups of at least 5.
When kept alone they are extremely anxious and the stress could eventually kill them.
Are glass catfish actually catfish?
Glass Catfish are true Catfish although they may not look like regular Catfish.
They belong to the order Siluriformes which includes all freshwater and saltwater Catfish.
Why is my glass catfish turning white?
Glass Catfish turn white when they are sick.
You should isolate them until the cause is determined. White spots or lesions over their body can indicate ich or a fungal disease. If this happens then you should immediately quarantine and medicate the affected fish.
A school of Glass Catfish offer a unique opportunity to observe some fascinating group dynamics.
If you keep them in a group of 5 or more and build a safe environment then these fish will get along just fine in your freshwater aquarium.
They are almost otherworldly in their appearance and nothing like anything you have ever seen before.
Do your Glass Catfish show themselves often?
Let us know in the comments section below…
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- Freshwater Fish
Glass Catfish
Without a doubt, the Glass Catfish is an oddball fish that will catch the eye of anyone looking into an aquarium containing it. There are many types of Glass Catfish and the two types that are most easily confused are Kryptopterus vitreolus and Kryptopterus Bichirris. The main difference between the two is their size; K. Minor is 2.5 inches while K. Bichirris can reach a size of 6.5 inches. K. Minor is a very beautiful catfish with an absent dorsal fin and lack of body pigmentation.
The first thing to notice about the Glass catfish is that it has transparent flesh, which allows us to see the spinal cord and internal organs. This transparent fish is also a picky eater; it has been known not to accept flake foods with ease. It is better to look for a local fish store that has trained their Glass Cats to eat flakes and freeze dried foods. To keep them in optimum shape, every once in a while they should get a treat of live or frozen brine shrimp or daphnia. Another trick to make flake and freeze dried food more attractive to the Glass Cat, is to place the food near a current, to stimulate feeding response.
Glass Catfish Care
Scientific Name : Kryptopterus vitreolus
Common Names : Ghost Catfish, Glass Cat
Care Level : Moderate
Size : 2.5 - 3" (8 cm)
Temperature : 70 to 79°F (21 - 26°C)
Lifespan : 7-8 years
Origin / Habitat : Asia, Borneo
Temperament / Behavior : Peaceful, Timid. It should be kept in a school of at least 6. Will not bother tank mates and should be kept with other peaceful fish.
Breeding : Extremely difficult to spawn in the home aquarium. Very little records exist about the breeding of this fish in captivity.
Aquarium Size : 30 Gallons minimum
Tank Mates : Best kept with other peaceful tank mates and does better when kept in schools of 6 or more.
Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease - Diagnose, Symptoms and Treatment - Be sure to quarantine, as they are wild caught and often come in with parasites.
Diet / Fish Food : It can be slightly difficult to get them eating flakes and freeze dried foods. Supplement with live or frozen mysis, brine shrimp and daphnia.
Tank Region : Middle of tank, areas of water current
Gender : Sexing is unknown
Photo Credit : Photos copyright JJPhoto.dk
Refernces : Wikipedia
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Resources » Freshwater Fish » Glass Catfish
Glass Catfish Care Guide & Species Profile
If you’re looking for a fish to add an element of surprise to your tank, look no further than the Glass Catfish. After one look at these transparent fish, it is clear why they have become so popular in the aquarium hobby.
Their clear bodies have been catching the attention of aquarists of all levels since they were introduced.
Originally, these fish are from South East Asia, they are at home in vegetated tanks full of peaceful fish like tetras . This setting reflects their natural habitat and creates a calm environment that mirrors their calm nature.
If you are thinking about adding these unique fish to your aquarium, this complete guide will take you through how to care for them, ideal tank mates, tank requirements, breeding, and much more.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Glass catfish facts & overview, habitat and tank conditions, is a glass catfish suitable for your aquarium.
The Glass Catfish has many names including Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish. All of these are common names that apply to several different species of skeleton catfish.
Initially, the most popular species of this family was known as the Kryptopterus bicirrhis . However, it was concluded that this was a misidentification and as such the popular species for aquariums are now known as Kryptopterus vitreolus .
The older title of Kryptopterus bicirrhis is reserved for the larger and more aggressive Glass Catfish. Fortunately, these are now very rare in the aquarium hobby/trade.
This guide will focus on the most popular species of Glass Catfish which is suitable for beginners; Kryptopterus vitreolus .
Glass Catfish got their name from their transparent body that lets you see their bones and organs. The scientific name comes from the Greek word kryptos, meaning hidden and pterýgio (fin). The name ‘hidden fin’ refers to the hardly visible tail fin.
When people hear the word catfish they tend to think larger freshwater fish that spend the majority of their time sucked onto rocks or feeding on the bottom. These fish defy that image to a certain point; yes, they do have the barbels that most catfish do, but they have chosen to leave the rocks in exchange for a free-swimming lifestyle.
These fish will school together. They are peaceful by nature and extremely timid, especially when they are first introduced into your tank.
After a few weeks however they will rise to the middle of the tank and swim actively, this brings amazing energy to the tank.
Plants are key for these fish as they will use them as hiding spots which help to block bright, direct light that they tend to avoid.
In terms of a Glass Catfish’s lifespan, you should expect a healthy one to live up to 8 years.
Typical Behavior
These fish will school together which makes for an incredible show; it is as if you have 5 or 6 skeletons swimming around in your tank!
Most catfish, while energetic, will stay on the bottom of the tank, whereas Glass Catfish are exceptions and enjoy swimming around.
They make great additions to peaceful community tanks and tend to keep to themselves, only ducking for cover when disturbed.
The first thing you will notice about these fish is their clear appearance. Their transparent skin lets you see their bones and organs.
All along the body, you can see their ribs vertically and a central spinal column. They do have a slightly raised portion of their back which is where their dorsal fin is. Their tail fin is nearly invisible, as is the ventral fin on their stomach. These two fins together allow for them to swim up and down in the water column.
Not only does this look amazing, but it also provides quite a bit of camouflage from predators. Their clear color means they are hard to see (which makes them harder to eat); similarly to the ghost shrimp .
Another big part of their appearance is the barbels on their head. This is something most catfish share to some extent.
They extend past their face, out from their nose. These are what give catfish their name as it looks like they have whiskers. They make them extremely sensitive to changes in their surroundings and some can even detect electromagnetic wave .
Scientists are fascinated by this and are attempting to understand how this can help patients with Epilepsy and Parkinson’s .
They only grow to about 5 inches and have a long, slender body.
Glass Catfish are originally from Thailand where they inhabit moderate moving rivers and streams. They mostly stay in the middle of the water column and rarely stray too far from the safety of the river bed.
Their barbels are used heavily as the water visibility tends to be low. Without these sensory organs, it would be much harder for these fish to survive in this environment.
Another adaptation for survival is the clear nature of the skin. When water conditions are poor, and visibility is low, having clear skin makes it nearly impossible to distinguish these fish from debris.
When being kept in an aquarium it is important to make sure they feel just as at home as they would in a river or stream.
Ideal Tank Conditions
When talking about tank conditions, they are just as fragile to water parameters as their name suggests. They don’t respond well to fluctuations in temperature, pH, or other chemical changes.
These numbers are not guidelines, but more of a must. If they begin to change, these fish will begin to die.
Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 75-80°F
- Hardness: KH 8-12
- pH: 6.5-7.0
- Water flow: Moderate
Due to the strict water parameters these fish require, they are harder to take care of than other easier beginner species .
They will thrive best in a tank that is 30 gallons or more. This gives them plenty of room to swim in the middle regions of the tank as well as plenty of space to hide if spooked. Make sure the tank is well planted.
Plants will not only help clean the water, but they will give hiding spots to these fish and feed other organisms in your tank. Think about adding common plants like Java Fern , Java Moss , or Hornwort which are all incredibly hardy.
Larger grained or sharper substrates can cause some damage to their barbels, so use small gravel or sand.
What Size Aquarium Do They Need?
Glass Catfish need a minimum of a 30-gallon tank. They need enough space to school and swim together as they please. Because they are so shy, the bigger aquarium gives them the ability to feel safer in their home.
How Many Can Be Kept Per Gallon?
Due to their schooling nature, having around 6 in the 30-gallon tank is best. This means keeping 1 Glass Catfish for every 5 gallons.
You need to give them plenty of space because if not, health risks can arise.
Diseases and other growth defects can pop up if you overcrowd your tank. Sometimes having fewer fish can truly be better if all of them are happy in their community (more on this later).
These fish work perfectly in community tanks. For those that do not know what that means, community tanks are full of different species of peaceful fish that live well together and do not attack one another.
Fish such as Swordtails , Mollies , and Celestial Pearl Danios are perfect tank makes for Glass Catfish. They are all peaceful and will not bother or out-compete your catfish.
Not only are these fish easy to keep, but they will live nicely with Glass Catfish. This means you can start with them first and then add more fish once you think you are ready.
Fish competing is another thing to keep an eye on . Aggressive fish may attack the calmer and slower fish. This can lead to the death of the slower fish as they struggle to find food.
They shouldn’t be kept with any large or aggressive fish. This is why Tiger Barbs and Sharks are not going to work in your tank. You should also avoid keeping fish like Cichlids and Oscars because they are very aggressive and will attack and eat your fish.
Keeping Glass Catfish Together
Keeping these fish together is very important. They will form tight social groups like they would in the wild, so mimicking that is important. Having only 1 Glass Catfish will lead to that fish likely dying due to being stressed.
In the wild these catfish mostly eat zooplankton and other small worms or invertebrates. Whilst they do live in the middle of the water column, they are still selective feeders. They have even been known to eat small fish (baby guppies ) and mosquito larvae.
This can be replicated in an aquarium by using frozen or live food such as Grindal worms, Daphnia, Brine Shrimp, and Moina. But in your tank, they will eat a wide range of food that includes pellets or flakes.
Even consider making your own fish food to make sure they not only have the best diet , but you are feeding your fish nothing but the best ingredients.
Make sure to keep an eye on them as they eat to check that they are consuming the food that you are giving them. Also, make sure there are no fish that are bullying them and stopping them eating.
Feeding once or twice a day will keep these fish happy and healthy. Make sure to only feed them as much as they will eat in a couple of minutes. Overfeeding fish will lead to excess nutrients in your tank which can lead to large amounts of algae and bacteria.
Because of the shy nature of these fish, it is important to make sure that they are getting the food you feed them. Some fish of other species, even if peaceful, will be more active in getting food and can scare your Glass Catfish.
Once you find out which fish are more active when feeding, you can then feed your fish methodically to make sure all fish have food. Try feeding one side of the tank that has the fish which are more active before adding food on the other side.
This lets the more active fish eat first and then gives time to the slower, more shy fish.
The biggest problem when caring for these fish is changes in the water conditions. The main reason these fish are not the easiest to keep is because of how hard it can be for people to maintain the strict water parameters.
To limit the risk of harm to your fish, make sure that you are adding them to an established tank that has already been cycled.
As for diseases, there is nothing special that they can be infected with. All you must look out for are the general sicknesses that aquariums can be impacted with such as:
- Ich : White grainy sand-like substance on their skin, will also be seen gasping at the surface of the water.
- Dropsy: Bloating and protruding scales.
- Fungus: Gray/white growth on the fins.
- Lice: Restless fish, will usually rub themselves on surfaces to try and remove lice.
As long as you keep your water parameters within the levels mentioned, carry out regular water changes, and don’t overfeed them, it’s unlikely they will be exposed to any of these illnesses.
Another important point is to always quarantine any fish before you add them to your community tank; this way you can thoroughly observe them and check they’re not ill.
While these fish do breed in the wild it is currently unknown how exactly they breed in captivity. More research is being done but has been inconclusive so far.
There are a few reports of people being successful in breeding them in captivity.
In the wild, these fish spawn seasonally during times of heavy rain. In a tank setting, this means lowering the water temperature to around 73°F and adding small amounts of freshwater every day.
The lower temperature and freshwater will help to mimic the rainy season and make them believe that it is time to breed. It is also important to feed them high levels of live food. Wild fish have an abundance of food around this time which gives them the energy needed to spawn.
If you do have success in breeding these fish, then the female will spread the eggs on the aquarium plants . These eggs will then hatch after 3-4 days.
The newly hatched fry will be very small but large enough to eat baby brine shrimp.
Another challenge is determining which fish is male and female. Females are only slightly larger and have a slightly larger stomach for keeping eggs.
No matter what, do not let the appeal of the Glass Catfish fool you into thinking that they are the easiest fish to care for. They are going to require more work than other beginner fish.
The conditions of the tank must be within their preferred range or things will begin to go wrong. This can be a huge challenge for new aquarists, meaning these fish are not going to be right for you.
However, if you’ve already made all your beginners mistakes , and are up to the challenge, or are a seasoned aquarist then they will make a great addition to your tank.
The visual appeal of these clear fish is their biggest selling point. There are few fish that give your tank such a unique look.
Do you already keep Glass Catfish, or are you thinking of getting a school for your tank? Let us know why you decided to choose these swimming skeletons in the comments section below.
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10 comments.
I keep ghosts in my tank. The ones I have, have been in my tank about 2 years. For me, they have been hardier than my other fish. None of my other fish bother them any. My beta, african feather fin catfish, and upside down catfish all leave the ghosts alone. Sometimes, they will school together. All my fish recognise me and get excited at feeding time and will swim up to my hand when I clean the tank. Love my fish.
I’ve kept the type you mentioned before about 6in total&3 African3striped version…my only hesitation now is due they feed off the bottom at all,if so they would be perfect with khuli loaches,dogo loach,&hilstream loach as part of the hilstream cleanup crew for my 3o gallon or I might be looking at something like the rainbow/retail shark!
I have four in a 120 gallon tank with other larger fish. They stick together like glue and rarely move from their preferred spot in the tank.
I bought 8 glasscats 2 years ago now, I have them in an aqua one ufo 700 with corys, marble hatchets, and ember tetras this is a heavily planted tank with lots of drift wood causing my water to be very tannin coloured however this has allowed the glasscats to breed and I now have 15 (though I did lose 1 of the adults) i seam to get breeding behaviour every 6 months upon live food feeding I don’t know if I’m just lucky but if this helps other’s breed enjoy
Hi Lee, thanks for sharing your experience with us. Robert
one of my glass catfish is showing a solid whitish just behind the dark ‘neck’ part.The others appear normal.I don’t know if this is bad and I should quarantine the one catfish.
My ghost catfish just had babies. Do you know how long it will take for them to grow? One of my angel fish keep sucking the babies up and then spitting them out like its trying to clean them
Are you sure they are gohst cat fry¬ Angle fish fry?(fresh water Agel fish is actually a species of chiclid&chiclids tend to only care for their own fry.
I LOVE Glass Catfish SO MUCH!!!!! Good job with this!!!!
I have a school of glass catfish in a 100 gallon tank. Along with lemon tetras, bristle nose cats, a feather fin cat and a large angelfish. All get along with the glass catfish. Lower level lighting keeps them happy, brighter light at one end of the tank keeps the plants happy. Once the lights are dimmed at night they really come alive. They are lightning fast at this time and perfect time to feed them along with the feather fin cat who hides most of the day. Some will approach me at feeding time but during the day they stay in one area in a tight school. Not a good fish if you want to show off the tank’ occupants during the day, perfect for anyone observing during the evening.
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Glass Catfish : Complete Care Guide
- by Tim Priest
- February 5, 2023
Have you ever wanted to add a touch of enchantment to your aquarium? Look no further than the Glass Catfish , a mysterious and alluring creature that will leave you spellbound. With its see-through body and shimmering fins, this fish is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
Don’t let their delicate appearance fool you! The Glass Catfish, also known as the Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish , is a tough little fish that can thrive in a variety of water conditions and tank setups. With a lifespan of up to 10 years and a peaceful disposition, these fish make great additions to community tanks. Here we will explore the fascinating world of the Glass Catfish, from its origin and habitat to its care requirements and behavior. Sit back, relax, and let’s get started on our journey to discover the magic of the Glass Catfish.
The Glass Catfish is one of the most distinctive and recognizable fish in the aquarium hobby . Its body is almost entirely transparent , giving it a ghostly appearance that is sure to delight and enchant. This fish has a long, slender body that tapers towards the tail, and it has a rounded snout and small, almost nonexistent scales.
With proper care, the Glass Catfish can live for up to 10 years , making it a great long-term addition to any aquarium. This fish is hardy and adaptable, and it is known for its peaceful disposition and ability to thrive in community tanks.
Average Size and Growth Rate
The average size of the Glass Catfish is 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) , but they can grow up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length. This fish has a slow growth rate, but with proper care and nutrition, it can grow to its full size over the course of several years.
The Glass Catfish is a relatively small fish , but it still requires a spacious tank. A minimum tank size of 10 gallons (37.8 L) is recommended, but larger tanks are always better. This fish is a social creature and it will do best in a community tank with other peaceful fish.
Water Parameters
The Glass Catfish is a hardy fish that can adapt to a variety of water conditions. However, it prefers water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C) . This fish also prefers moderate water movement and a well-established filtration system.
The Glass Catfish is an omnivore , and it will eat a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp and worms. Provide a balanced and varied diet to ensure the health and longevity of your Glass Catfish. These fish are poor bottom feeders , so it’s important to provide food that doesn’t immediately sink to the bottom of the tank.
Housing Requirements
The Glass Catfish requires a well-established and spacious tank with plenty of hiding places and a well-filtered water source. It is important to include live or artificial plants , caves, and other hiding places in the tank to provide the fish with a sense of security.
Behavior and Temperament
The Glass Catfish is a peaceful and social fish that does well in community tanks. This fish is a shoaling species, and it is best kept in groups of at least 3-4 individuals . It is a non-aggressive fish that is known for its calm and graceful behavior. The Glass Catfish is an active fish that likes to swim in the middle to upper water column, and it will often swim in shoals with its tankmates.
Glass Catfish are not commonly bred in captivity. There is very little information available on naturally triggering these fish to spawn. Some hobbyists have reported successful spawns, but it is best to assume these fish will not naturally breed in the aquarium setting. They are known to be egg-scatterers.
The Glass Catfish is a peaceful and social fish that does well in community tanks. It is best kept with other peaceful and non-aggressive species, such as tetras , rasboras , and peaceful corydoras . Avoid keeping Glass Catfish with larger, more aggressive fish that may bully or harm them.
Diseases and Illnesses
History and origin.
Glass catfish, also known scientifically as Kryptopterus vitreolus , are unique and fascinating freshwater fish that have a transparent body. They are native to Southeast Asia, and are found in large rivers with turbid water and fast-flowing streams.
This species of catfish is found in places such as Borneo, Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula, and the Chao Phraya and Mekong drainage basins. They inhabit large rivers and prefer peaty water. In the wild, Glass catfish are diurnal predators and mainly feed on water bugs and sometimes smaller fishes.
When you observe glass catfish, you will see that their bodies are virtually transparent with scattered patches of pigments on the head and underbelly. This transparency is due to the low number of melanophores on the body and the presence of guanine in the body wall. This guanine layer acts as a mirror and reflects the light and color of the habitat, making the fish effectively camouflaged from predators.
The glass catfish has a reduced dorsal fin and two long barbels for locating food, which are as long as the body in front of the anal fin. The pectoral fins are longer than the head, and the body of the glass catfish turns milky white when it dies. When struck by light, the glass catfish displays an iridescence, which is a characteristic that makes it a sought-after species for aquarium enthusiasts.
There are other species that are often mistakenly labeled as glass catfish. For example, the African Glass Cat, Parailia pellucida, is sometimes labeled as the glass catfish, so it is crucial to be aware of the characteristics that differentiate glass catfish from other similar species. This will help you avoid confusion when buying glass catfish for your aquarium.
Prior to 2013, the glass catfish was referred to and imported as Kryptopterus bicirrhis in the aquarium trade. However, new information about the species has shed light on the fact that very few of the larger Kryptopterus bicirrhis were ever actually imported, and the glass catfish that appear in most hobbyist tanks is in fact, Kryptopterus vitreolus .
Fun Facts The scientific name Kryptopterus is derived from the Greek words “kryptos” meaning hidden and “pteryx” meaning fin. This is in reference to the reduced or absent dorsal fin of this group of fishes. The common name “glass catfish” is derived from the Latin word “vitreus” meaning of glass, in reference to its transparent appearance in life. In western Borneo, the glass catfish is known as “lais tipis” in the Malay language, but when locals want to distinguish it from its relative, they refer to it as “lais limpok.” In Cambodia, the glass catfish is known as “trey kes prak” and is used to make the fermented fish paste “prahok.”
In conclusion, the Glass Catfish is a truly enchanting and captivating creature that is sure to bring a touch of magic to any aquarium. With its delicate appearance and peaceful disposition, this fish is a must-have addition to any community tank. So why not add a little sparkle to your tank today and bring home a Glass Catfish! Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner just starting out, this fish is sure to captivate and delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do Glass Catfish eat? A: Glass Catfish are omnivores and can be fed a variety of food options, including bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill, daphnia, tubifex worms, mysis shrimp, blackworms, artemia, mosquito larvae, and flakes/pellets.
Q: How big do Glass Catfish get? A: Glass Catfish typically grow to be around 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) in length.
Q: How long do Glass Catfish live? A: Glass Catfish can live up to 10 years in captivity with proper care.
Q: How many Glass Catfish should I get? A: It is recommended to keep Glass Catfish in schools of at least 4 individuals to promote their natural schooling behavior and provide them with a sense of security.
Q: Where are Glass Catfish from? A: Glass Catfish are native to Southeast Asia, known primarily from the coastal river basins of Peninsular Thailand draining into the Gulf of Thailand south of the Isthmus of Kra.
Q: Are Glass Catfish aggressive? A: No, Glass Catfish are not aggressive and are generally peaceful fish that do well in community aquariums.
Q: Are Glass Catfish schooling fish? A: Yes, Glass Catfish are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 4 (preferably 6 or more) to promote their natural schooling behavior and provide them with a sense of security.
Tim Priest , a renowned aquarium expert with over 15 years of experience in aquatic gardening and fish education, is dedicated to helping enthusiasts create stunning and thriving aquatic environments. As the founder of LearnTheAquarium.com , Tim shares his wealth of knowledge, passion, and expertise through engaging articles, educational resources, and personalized advice.
Discover the secrets to creating captivating underwater landscapes and maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems. Join Tim on an exciting journey and let your aquarium adventure begin !
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Featherfin Squeaker Catfish: Ultimate Guide to Caring for These Unique Fish
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Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) Care: Tips, Tricks, and Expert Advice
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Glass Catfish 101: Care, Diet, Tank Size, Tank Mates & More
The kryptopterus vitreolus (or Glass Catfish), sometimes known as the Ghost Catfish, is a small freshwater glassfish species native to Southeast Asia.
Vitreous is derived from the Latin word “vitreus,” which means “glass,” and the Greek word “Kryptos,” which means “hidden”. The spines of this catfish family, which belongs to the Siluridae family, do not extend past their dorsal or adipose fins, and their dorsal fins may be tiny or absent entirely.
Glass Catfish require at least a 30-gallon tank. They require adequate space to school and swim together as they see fit. Because they are so shy, the larger aquarium allows them to feel more secure in their surroundings. They will thrive in a tank of at least 30 gallons. This offers them lots of areas to swim in the tank’s central regions, as well as plenty of space to hide if they get scared. Check that the tank is well-planted.
There are a lot of glass catfish tank mates to pick from. These fish do well in community aquariums where they can coexist with a variety of other creatures.
When it comes to choosing good glass catfish tank mates, the two things to look for are size and aggression. Larger fish can be a problem since they may consider your glass catfish to be a snack!
Aggression should also be avoided because the mild demeanor of ghost catfish will work against them. They are simply too peaceful to speak up for themselves. To get you started, here are some wonderful glass catfish tank mates:
- Kuhli Loach
- Cory catfish
- Swordtails,
Same Species Tanks
The Glass Cat is a calm, shy, and sensitive fish. It should only be kept with tranquil tank mates and in a school of at least six. They thrive in larger, well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding places. If they are maintained with aggressive mates or in a tiny school, they will turn white and die from stress.
Water Parameters
When it comes to tank conditions, they are equally as sensitive to water parameters as their name implies. They do not react well to temperature, pH, or other chemical changes. These figures are more of a requirement than a guideline. These fish will begin to perish if they begin to change.
- Temperature range: 75-80°F
- KH 8-12 hardness
- pH range: 6.5-7.0
- Moderate water flow
These fish are more difficult to care for than other easier starter species due to the tight water parameters they require.
What To Put In Their Tank
It is essential to use the best and/or correct filtration system when caring for your fish. It’s exciting to build and set up your aquarium and collect all the exotic plants and rocks, but the filtration system should be your primary focus.
Bigger is preferable in this scenario. Some filters are fixed, while others can tolerate a variety of tank sizes. Make sure you obtain one that is rated for 30 gallons or more (since that is the least size you should have for glass catfish).
Common Diseases
If you only look at the recommended water requirements for glass catfish, it can be a little scary, but it’s all up from there. When it comes to these fish, there are no species-specific diseases to be concerned about.
Just make sure to provide them a well-balanced diet of high-quality foods and keep their water clean. You will considerably lessen the likelihood of them having any of the typical health issues that affect freshwater fish if you do this.
Food & Diet
Glass catfish diets in captivity should be as close to their natural diet as feasible. This will be accomplished through the use of a range of food sources in order to achieve a well-balanced diet.
A high-quality flake or pellet meal is a good place to start, and it’s something you’ll be giving them on a daily basis. This food will be the foundation of their diet, ensuring that they acquire all of their vital nutrients.
High protein sources such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia are also excellent complements. You don’t want to feed this to your ghost catfish too frequently, but once or twice a week is good. This ensures that kids receive additional enrichment from the variety and that they are never too hungry.
With good care, Glass Catfish can live from 7-8 years in captivity.
The glass catfish’s most appealing feature is its one-of-a-kind appearance. These fish are completely translucent, as the name implies. The primary advantage of this is that it makes them more difficult for predators to find, similar to ghost shrimp. They are almost shockingly transparent at first. You can easily view all of their inside organs and what is going on in their system.
One of the most noticeable features of these fish is their spine. You can see their entire spine, which extends from their head to the base of their caudal fin since they’re so clear. While swimming, it’s nearly hard to see their fins. Looking at images is a better approach to acquire a sense of the situation.
While swimming, it’s nearly hard to see their fins. Seeing photos of them is a better approach to understanding their structure. The caudal fins of ghost catfish are forked and there is no dorsal fin. Their little pectoral fins provide the majority of their vertical motion, and if you look closely, you may see them swimming swiftly.
Their internal organs are also clearly apparent. They are located behind their eyes, near the base of their pectoral fins, and appear to be a dark silvery mass. Glass catfish have barbels that protrude straight out from their heads, as opposed to other catfish, which have barbels that fall back behind them while swimming.
There are several species of Glass Catfish, the most common of which are Kryptopterus vitreous and Kryptopterus Bichirris. The biggest distinction between the two is their size; K. Minor is 2.5 inches long, whereas K. Bichirris can grow to be 6.5 inches long. K. Minor is a stunning catfish with a missing dorsal fin and a lack of body coloration.
Behavior & Temperament
They truly add something special to your tank. Glass catfish are a terrific addition for everyone from new fish owners to hobbyists to seasoned aquarists.
Glass catfish can be fairly lively, and unlike most other catfish species, they do not loiter at the bottom of the tank. They enjoy free swimming and will normally swim around in the center of your tank.
They are calm, get along well with other fish, and thrive in community tanks. They keep to themselves, and you may find them hidden among the plants and other decorations in your tank to avoid direct sunlight.
These fish reproduce during the monsoon season in their native Thailand. However, how they breed in a tank remains a mystery. Although there have been a few accounts of individuals successfully reproducing them in captivity, the rate is not very great. Make sure you have at least one of each sex.
It’s tough to identify the difference between male and female glass catfish because the females are only slightly larger and have a slightly larger belly for eggs.
The easiest technique to try to recreate a proper breeding environment in the tank is to drop the temperature to roughly 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit), then add some freshwater every day (not too much).
This gives the impression that rainfall is being added. This is also what may lead the fish to feel that it is the rainy season and that it is time to start mating.
You can get the fish to reproduce by doing everything you can to make them feel at ease (in their natural environment). This includes ensuring that there is plenty of live food available at this time.
The live food will give your glass catfish the energy it needs to pair. Make sure your aquarium has plenty of plants since female catfish will lay their eggs on the surface of these plants. The young glass catfish, despite its small size, will be able to consume tiny morsels of food and baby brine shrimp.
Gender Differences: Male vs Female
It’s tough to identify the difference between male and female glass catfish because the females are only slightly larger and have a slightly larger belly for eggs. The only way to know for sure is to check their anatomy.
- These fish are sensitive to bright light. We bet you wouldn’t enjoy it if you didn’t have any pigmentation.
- They might be picky eaters, so be sure the pet store offers the right food for them. They don’t usually like flakes, however, they may prefer freeze-dried food. Placing the food near a current (from the filter) to resemble real prey is an effective approach to entice them to eat.
- They are affected by electromagnetic fields. This has the ability to uncover and solve all of our questions about neurological illnesses including Parkinson’s and epilepsy. Studies on mice have been conducted in which the EPG gene (electromagnetic perceptive gene) is administered non-invasively; this is the same gene that may one day aid with tremors in a person’s limbs.
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All About Glass Catfish – Care, Size, Tank Mates, Diet, And More
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These invisible, gentle freshwater fish are known as the ghost catfish or phantom catfish and are great in community tanks. To help you get started with their care we have put together this guide to glass catfish keeping so you can ensure your translucent beauties thrive! We will cover information on where they come from, what they look like, their diet requirements, and who should be kept alongside them for a harmonious aquarium environment. So let’s begin learning how to keep these enigmatic ghosts of the water happy and healthy!
Key Takeaways
- Glass catfish are peaceful and transparent fish native to Southeast Asia, with a lifespan of up to 7-8 years.
- A 30 gallon tank is needed for glass catfish care, along with live plants, soft substrate & hiding spots.
- Feed them a balanced diet & choose compatible species as tank mates. Breeding requires patience, but it can be done!
Species Overview
Introduction.
Glass catfish are a unique catfish species that is often seen inhabiting the community tanks of many hobbyists. With their almost transparent bodies and barely visible tail fin, these small cats have earned nicknames such as a skeleton or phantom catfishes – alluding to an elusive look! They remain peaceful additions among other fish varieties in most aquariums.
In this guide, we will cover glass catfish’s origin story, size, and lifespan while also providing proper care guidelines for them so you can confidently add them to your tank mates! Keep watch over its hardly-visible tailfin, which helps set it apart from traditional members of the Catfish family as well as enhance its distinctive “ghostly” aesthetic in any home freshwater aquarium.
Origins And Habitats
Ghost catfish, also known as phantom catfish, are highly sought after in the aquarium trade. They originate from Southeast Asia (namely Thailand), and they can typically be found residing within slow-moving rivers, river basins, or streams with dense vegetation for hiding spots and a calm aquatic environment. These aquarium fish have an extraordinary transparent body which allows them to blend into their surroundings while swimming freely, making it much easier to evade predators.
In freshwater tanks, glass cats make wonderful tank mates due to their peaceful behavior towards other fish species, such as being content simply swimming around actively together in schools throughout the middle of the aquarium. Nevertheless, one must take care that water parameters stay consistent so these sensitive critters do not suffer any distress caused by fluctuations in quality or temperature changes over time.
Overall ghost/phantom catfishes present an attractive addition to many home aquariums thanks to their beauty, activity levels & compatibility well alongside other small fishes, given proper consideration is paid when maintaining optimal living conditions.
A noticeable characteristic of glass catfish is their almost see-through body, which offers an ideal disguise from predators in the environment where they live. Their size can reach up to 3 inches, making them a suitable pick for most home freshwater aquariums. The barbels on the snout serve as sensory organs, helping them sense water pressure or changes around their natural habitat while missing out on having a dorsal fin yet featuring with a tail fin that gives Glass catfish unique swimming abilities.
Alongside this interesting feature are its pectoral fins which help it move upwards/downwards gracefully making themselves blend even better into hiding spots and other debris found in nature’s ecosystem.
It is essential to create a suitable living environment for glass catfish if you want them to achieve their full lifespan of 7-8 years. In order for these fish to stay happy and healthy, they need steady water parameters (such as temperature and pH levels ) within the recommended range, regular partial tank changes, plenty of hiding places in their habitat, an adequate diet suited to this species, and compatible tank mates.
Creating such conditions requires careful monitoring since fluctuating aquascapes can be detrimental not just to your pet, but also to other inhabitants. It goes without saying that proper care should include carrying out necessary measures like keeping the water clean at all times. Providing areas where it could seek refuge from any potential predators would greatly aid in making your catfish feel safe.
When it comes to keeping glass catfish, it is important to remember that they usually grow up between 2-3 inches. Factors such as genetics and quality of care are essential in determining their final size. To guarantee a more natural environment for them so they can reach their full potential, you should provide your fish with plenty of room for swimming and exploring when setting up its tank.
Glass Catfish Care Guide
When caring for glass catfish ( K vitreolus ), it is important to be aware of the basic needs such as tank size, decor, water parameters, and filtration in order to create a suitable home environment. The fish are also sensitive creatures who require strict maintenance with regard to their water quality, so regular water changes should be done.
Glass catfish need a tank of no less than 30 gallons in order to thrive. With enough space for them to explore and swim, having other fish species or even just a larger school requires an adequately sized aquarium. They are a social species, requiring a group of 6 Glass catfish in order for them to stay social. Overcrowding could also lead your fishy residents into stress or ill health due to stunted growth.
Decorations And Setup
When setting up a tank for glass catfish, it’s important to consider their natural habitat and provide them with hiding spots. When it comes to aquatic plants, consider ones such as:
To make sure your fish are comfortable and safe whilst exploring the bottom of the tank, you should use soft substrates like fine gravel or sand. Using other large or irregular substrates will increase the chance of damage caused by sharp objects that may be present in other textures.
For decorations, you will want to use driftwood and aquarium rocks . As you’ll notice in the next section, Glass Catfish prefer soft and acidic water. Driftwood will maintain these parameters, and so can the right rocks.
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Water Parameters (Tank Conditions)
Glass catfish are not considered beginner fish. They are very sensitive to changes in their environment. The ideal temperature for these fish should be between 75-78°F and a pH range from the high 5’s to neutral. The tank should also maintain an optimal hardness level of 2 – 6 dKH. Monitoring all these values constantly and making adjustments accordingly will help keep stress levels low among your pet fish.
Outside of these parameters, you should also get a water test kit to monitor the following water conditions:
- Ammonia : 0 PPM
- Nitrites : 0 PPM
- Nitrates : 40 PPM
Always perform water changes to maintain your water parameters. Water changes can not only be helpful in reducing the three above parameters, but they can also help balance out pH and hardness. Consider purchasing a water test kit so you can constantly monitor your levels.
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Filtration And Water Flow
In order for a glass catfish tank to be healthy, it needs proper filtration and water flow. Power filters or canister filters are recommended as they help keep the tank clean by eliminating debris and by processing unhealthy nutrients through the beneficial bacteria it houses. Glass catfish should have moderate-leveled currents resembling those of their natural environment like rivers and streams. Too strong flows might cause stress on them, so finding the perfect middle ground must be taken into account.
In order to regulate flow in the aquarium, you will want to adjust the flow of your filters. Many higher quality filters will have the ability to adjust the flow. They are fast enough to not get sucked up by your intake, but you have to adjust the flow as they are timid by nature and will stress out when they are exposed to high flows.
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Nutritional Needs And Feeding
For a glass catfish to remain healthy, it is important that its diet be both varied and nutritious. In this section, we will take an in depth look at what these unique fish feed on along with the frequency of feeding for them. A combination of high quality flakes/pellets combined with items like brine shrimp or freeze dried food should ensure your pet’s growth, coloration, as well as its healthiness overall.
Glass Catfish are omnivores, which implies they consume plant matter as well as animals items in the wild: things such as small fish, insects larvae, plus other tiny forms of protein sources all form part of their natural eating habits. You can provide pellets/flakes made exclusively out of these whole ingredients. Frozen or freeze-dried foods such as daphnia and bloodworms also help round up meals completely into more than just one type of dish per day!
Types Of Foods
In order to have a healthy and happy glass catfish, it is important to provide them with an adequately balanced diet. Let’s discuss the types of food and recommendations:
- Flake food – Look for fish flakes made of whole foods, high in protein, and with probiotics
- Pellet food – Whole formulas preferably with insects – bug bits are a great choice!
- Freeze dried food – Krill, Daphila, blackworms – use supplements like Vita-Chem to enhance
- Frozen – Brine shrimp, bloodworms
Even though live food can be great for providing your fish with protein-packed meals, you should make sure the critters are free of parasites before introducing them into the aquarium environment. The best way to introduce live foods to your glass catfish would be to cultivate your own. There are many videos online that explain this process. I’ve included one below from Hobby TV that will walk you through the process.
Creating variety when giving sustenance will promote both good physical health and well being within your glass catfish population. Try purchasing several types of food and mixing up the different types of food throughout the week to keep your fish’s diet balanced.
Feeding Frequency And Portion Sizes
Finding a balance between feeding your glass catfish enough and overfeeding them is important, which can lead to water quality issues. It’s best to give small servings 2-3 times per day that they must eat within minutes of being offered.
As these fish are selective feeders, it’s necessary to observe how much food they take in order to ensure their diet is balanced and the aquarium stays healthy. If there is an excess amount after every mealtime, then cut down on portion sizes accordingly. Maintaining a watchful eye during each feeding time will keep you from adding too many excessive nutrients via overfeeding while also keeping your fish well fed.
Tank Mates Selection
Having suitable tank mates for glass catfish is an essential part of setting up a successful community aquarium. As glass cats are passive and docile fish, they can be combined with other peaceful non-aggressive species to create a contented living environment that you and your fish will enjoy.
When choosing potential companions, it’s necessary to think carefully about the type of fish being added will not harass your glass catfish. The main thing to know about glass catfish is their fish. Because they only grow up to 3 inches in aquariums, they are going to be best suited with fish of similar size or nano fish . Any fish double their size is going to be questioned and may intimidate your glass catfish. Let’s dive into this further below.
Compatible Fish Species
When selecting tankmates for glass catfish, it is ideal to choose peaceful species such as:
- Tetra fish – Neons , Cardinals , Rummy Nose . Avoid large tetras that are known for being nippy
- Dwarf Gouramis
- Corydoras Catfish
- Rasbora fish – Harlequins are a great choice
- Celestial Pearl Danio
- Small loaches like Yoyo Loaches
To ensure the well being of your community aquarium inhabitants, research care instructions for each type carefully before bringing them together in one space. There are links to each of the fish listed above with our articles that will help you out.
Bad Tank Mates
When it comes to tankmates for glass catfish, it’s important not to include aggressive fish. Let’s look at a fish bad choices:
- Large cichlids
- Barb fish like Tiger barbs
- Large mostly peaceful fish like Severums – they will likely eat your catfish
These types of fish can potentially cause harm, stress, and lead to serious health problems from opportunist diseases or even death in your glass catfish. The best way to ensure a peaceful environment is by choosing suitable companions that will cohabitate with the group without competing too much over food resources. These should be carefully selected so they create a harmonious community tank for all inhabitants!
The Challenges Of Breeding
It can be a complicated task to reproduce glass catfish in captivity due to the meticulous care needed. Nevertheless, with enough patience and observation of their habits, it is possible for aquarists to breed these eye-catching fish and nurture their offspring successfully.
Although there isn’t much written on breeding glass catfish as they are rarely bred by hobbyist aquarium enthusiasts, if you observe them closely while attempting to replicate natural conditions that would enable successful spawning then this may increase your chances of having success raising fry from the species. That being said, I’ve only known of one documented case that was more of an accident published on Planetcatfish .
In the wild, these fish breed during heavy rainfall seasonality. To accomplish a similar environment, you will need to lower the temperature to the low 70s and add fresh water every day to simulate the rain. However, breeding is more realistic in commercial breeding environments and best left to those breeders.
Caring For Glass Catfish Fry
If you are able to successfully breed your glass catfish, the female will lay eggs on aquarium plants, and they should hatch in approximately 3-4 days. At first, the fry has to eat infusoria, then transition to baby brine shrimp because of their small size. Males can usually be distinguished from females since the latter tend to grow larger and show a noticeable stomach area due to egg carrying ability.
As it is necessary for proper growth and development along with fostering an eye-catching transparent look, feeding them protein-rich dishes like larval insects or micro worms combined with regular servings of brine shrimp should help raise healthy juvenile fish. With appropriate nutrition coupled with creating ideal conditions within the tank environment, you could observe fascinating experiences as those youthful Glass Catfish mature into adults before your eyes!
Common Health Issues And Preventative Measures
The health of glass catfish can be compromised if their habitat is not looked after properly. It’s important to maintain the water levels within a safe range and replace it with clean water on a regular basis for these fish, as they are sensitive to any changes in environmental conditions. In order to avoid diseases , consider quarantining new additions before putting them into your community tank set up along with other fish like tank mates. The most common disease you will come across will be freshwater ich .
Should you observe that one of your glass catfish has turned white, this could point towards poor health, stress or fungal infection – thus calling for immediate isolation followed by necessary treatment plans being administered accordingly.
If needed, steps are taken, such as providing secure surroundings (for example, through compatibility among the different types of fish) together with proper feeding and stable settings in general, which will help prevent potential medical issues from happening while also ensuring good health amongst the members inside the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are glass catfish hard to keep?
Not exactly. While not a beginner fish, Glass catfish, are relatively hassle-free to maintain in a tank environment. The main reason why they aren’t considered beginner fish is their timid nature and their ease of getting stressed out. As long as their basic needs, such as water temperature, comfortable community tank, and quality diet, are fulfilled, these fish provide plenty of enjoyment with minimal fuss.
How big do glass catfish get?
Glass catfish are an attractive option for any freshwater aquarium due to their colorful fins and elegant bodies. They measure 2-3 inches in length, with a lifespan of up to 8 years if properly taken care of. When kept in its natural environment or schooled together, they provide great visuals as well as long term companionship within the tank.
How many glass catfish should I get?
You should consider getting at least 6 to start. They are social creatures that prefer to hang out with their own kind. They can be combined with other schooling fish to make excellent compliments to planted tanks and community aquariums.
Are Ghost glass catfish aggressive?
Ghost Glass Catfish are great additions to a community aquarium due to their peaceful nature. They can be intimidated by more dominant fish yet typically move around the tank in harmony without any aggression toward other inhabitants. These peaceful creatures rarely cause issues and make for ideal companions in an aquatic home environment. You mostly have to worry about other fish harassing them then the other way around!
What is the ideal tank size for glass catfish?
It’s recommended that glass catfish have a healthy and contented life when they are placed in an aquarium no smaller than 30 gallons. Consider a larger tank if you want to keep them with other schooling fish. At least a 40 gallon aquarium would be recommended.
Closing Thoughts
To sum up, glass catfish are an absolutely spectacular species to have in any freshwater aquarium. With their clear bodies and stylish swimming movements, they make a great visual impact as well as bring peace to the tank. If you follow this guide’s care instructions accurately, your fish will stay healthy for many years ahead while also being surrounded by suitable companions that contribute to its wellbeing.
Ever kept this fish in your aquarium before? Let us know in the comment section. We love to hear from our readers. Let’s start a conversation. Until next time!
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Glass Catfish | A Complete Guideline for your aquarium collection
Glass Catfish Are you fond of keeping fish in your aquarium? Or looking for some of the good collections? Well, you have to go through a lot of research to get information on a variety of fish available for your water tank.
In this article, we will discuss Ghost catfish in detail. This article is comprised of all the answers you are looking for.
Glass Catfish, kryptopterus vitreolus (the scientific name), also known as Ghost catfish or Phantom catfish. They are medium-sized fishes with a subterminal mouth. Their body is transparent due to which their internal organs are visible. Yet, they have a strong and protective lower jaw.
According to their size, they are categorized into two types. The one with the smallest size, i.e. 2.5 inches is Kryptopterus vitreolus while the largest size, i.e. 6.5 inches, is Kryptopterus Bichirris.
This fish is considered to be a peace-loving spice that makes them ideal for keeping in your home aquarium. Although they may be tough for beginners, they soon settled down with other fishes as well.
They are active swimmers and love to swim in vegetation and plenty of areas of plants. They shouldn’t have kept them aggressive nature fish; otherwise, they will die out of stress or be hungry.
They are picky eaters but also eat small invertebrates and always prefer to stay acidic to alkaline water. They can even grow to 8 cm, and the life span can be 8-year years if they live with great care.
Quick Stats:
Glass catfish (which is also known as phantom fish) originated from the brackish waters of Thailand, even in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. They prefer to stay in streams and rivers and flow with other fish inhabits in a school. They rarely go far away from their safety level.
It is a common observation that the word glass or ghost indicates appearance. Most of the creatures with this word have a transparent or visible body.
While talking about the catfish, most organs are located near its head. Their transparent body allows you to see their organs and spine. You can even notice the heartbeat if you observed it.
As there are no pigments on their body, this catfish is more secure from its predators. But it’s also true that their “clear” bodies make them difficult to see even for a human being.
Although it may seem that the catfish have no dorsal fin, but, if you look a little bit closer, you can see a small fin behind the head of the fish.
Their Behavior
They are a great addition to your water tank because of their peaceful nature. You will find them quite energetic and free swimmers. Unlike other species, they usually swim around the middle of the tank. They also try to hide between plants located in your tank to avoid sunlight.
How to care for a Glass catfish?
They are very easy to keep because of their peaceful nature. They do not need extra care or attention, but a moderate level of care is enough for them. It is best to keep them in a school of 6 other spices.
Before introducing new members into the water tank, make sure to check they should not be sick before. The biggest challenge you can face while keeping ghost catfish is to make them alive for 7-8 years.
With consistent changes of water in a week, you can avoid some susceptible issues that most aquarium fish faces like ich, dropsy , fungus, or lice.
Possible Glass Catfish Diseases
The best challenges met while maintaining these fishes are the changes in climatic conditions. Keeping strict water parameters and maintaining them in good health is a difficult job. To lessen the health risks, ensure the location where you place your glass catfish remains clean and properly recycled.
Generally, the types of diseases they can be influenced by are:
- Ich: Here, you will discover grainy white spots on the surface of the skin, and they’ll continually be gasping for water.
- Fungus: There will be white or grey fungus growth on the outside of their skin.
- Lice: Generally, under this condition, the glass catfish become restless and will constantly try rubbing themselves on the surface, thereby hoping to remove the lice.
When you observe that some of your fishes are influenced by the kind of illnesses mentioned previously, separate them once.
Important care Tips:
Here, we have made a list of some care tips for a catfish in your home aquarium:
- Choose a water tank with the capacity of stock of at least six spices. The best is to have kept them with peace-loving mates. The species should not be more than 6 in number.
- The suitable temperature of the water in a water tank should be around 70 to 79°F (21 – 26°C).
- The least amount of water in the water tank should be around about 30 Gallons least or more. The less quantity of water can disturb the fishes, and they can refuse to eat.
- In the start, quarantine ghost fishes alone and avoid keeping them with other fishes. As there might be the possibility of any parasite or harmful diseases with them.
- It will be desirable and best if the natural environment (wild plants and streams) should be made stimulated. The ghost fishes love this kind of habitat, and they will be happy.
- This fish is very sensitive to brightness or lighter area; therefore, they like to hide beside the shaded parts of the water tank.
- Water should be renewed regularly. Otherwise, they pine away or become infected due to any issue caused by water impurities.
- In the case of food, they are picky eaters. Thus, frozen Mysis, daphnia, and brine shrimp are the perfect food for them. They will happily eat all.
What Do Glass Catfish Eat?
Being selective feeders and shy in nature, special care and attention are needed to feed them. Most of these catfishes eat zooplankton and other small worms. They are also known to eat baby guppies (small fish).
However, in the water tank, their food is replicated by a wider variety of food such as frozen or flake food. They should be treated by frozen brine shrimp, Daphnia, or Moina.
If you are looking for a catfish who is trained to eat flakes and freezer food, then local fish stores are ideal for that.
Now the question that arises is, how much food is required in a single day? Feeding a maximum of two times a day is ideal for them. Make sure to put a reasonable quantity of food in the water tank. Otherwise, it will spoil your tank and also can cause algae and bacteria in them.
Catfish are shy, which can sometimes cause doubt in them. When feeding the fish in the water tank, some species are very active, and that’s the reason, they eat the food first. But glass catfish remain unfed.
To make sure that all the fish have food, you must feed the active fish first and keep an eye on any doubt, making fish.
The ideal water tank conditions:
Well, these fish are sensitive to even a small fluctuation in temperature, pH, or other changes. Even slight changes in water parameters can cause the death of these fish .
Below are some points to follow. Keep in mind, that it varies from tank to tank since you know better about the species you put in a tank. If you don’t follow these points, then your fish is already at risk:
- The water temperature for an aquarium should be maintained at:
- 75- 80 degrees Fahrenheit,
- PH 6.5 to 7 and
- Have a very moderate water flow.
- The bigger the aquarium is, the more a catfish will feel safer and happier. So, the recommended quantity of water is at least 30 gallons per tank.
- Make sure the tank is well planted. They will help catfish to hide and also help to clean the water tank . You can add common plants like Java Fern, Java Moss, and Hornwort to the water tank.
- Don’t overcrowd the tank with more species as it can pop up different diseases and other health risks.
- You should control the level of ammonia and nitrates in a water tank as they are dangerous for glass catfish. For water purification, the water filtration system should be efficient and renewed
- You are in a problem if you set up your aquarium but couldn’t set up the filtration system. The bigger is the water tank, the bigger the filtration system will take care of your fish.
- Always check the level of ammonia, nitrate, pH level before introducing new fish into your aquarium.
Best tank mates for your Glass Catfish
Now the question is, can we keep catfish with other species in the same water tank?
They can keep with similar-minded mates like Swordtails, Celestial Pearl , Mollies, Corydoras, Kribensis, etc.
They are all peaceful fish that live together and don’t attack each other.
Keeping fish together is also important because they will lead to a strong social group; however, they shouldn’t keep with aggressive mates. In case, if you kept them with aggressive fish, they would die due to stress or non-compatibility.
Some of the aggressive fish include Oscars , Tiger Barbs, and Cichlids. Avoid keeping these mates as they can be dangerous for your class fish. They can even attack them or can also eat them.
You can add friendly fish with catfish and then gradually can add more fish once you see they are ready to accept more.
Glass Catfish Breeding
In their native habitat, they usually breed in times of heavy rainfall. But breeding in a water tank is still unknown and remains a mystery. But it is reported that some people are successful in breeding them in their aquariums.
For this, you must have at least one of each sex. Another challenging thing for you is to point out gender differences, i.e. male and female. Female fish have larger bellies and larger stomachs.
The best way for breeding is to create a natural environment in a tank. The temperature should be about 23 degrees Celsius and keep adding fresh water every day.
This lowest possible temperature and freshwater will help with breeding, while special attention is to be paid to the abundant supply of food to them. In this period, they need more energy to spawn.
If you don’t get success, then the female fish will lay their eyes on the aquarium plants which will hatch after 3-4 days. These hatched baby glass catfish will be capable of eating baby brine shrimp.
Glass Catfish Lifespan
The average glass catfish lifespan is between 7 and 8 years in optimal tank conditions. This really is enough amount of time that really lets you enjoy and bond with these fish.
Their lifespan could be shortened significantly if you don’t provide them with the proper tank conditions. Ensure to keep a compatible environment and follow the recommendations in this guide if you would like to make sure that they reside as long as possible.
Challenges of keeping Glass catfish
It is challenging for a beginner to keep catfish because of its sensitive and shy nature.
Following are some of the challenges you can face:
- You should create a natural environment like streams, plantations, and flowing water for them.
- Make sure to check all the parameters of the aquarium as they are prone to diseases.
- Change the water often so that the catfish must feel safe and happy.
- They are free swimmers, add some plants inside the aquarium.
- They feel more comfortable in the middle layer of the water tank. So, the temperature wouldn’t be less than 26-degree Fahrenheit.
- Don’t panic if they are found at the bottom of their new tank, and they will get up and swim later. They are doing so because of the little stress of a new home.
- The best way is to put the food near a current to feed them food.
Some cool facts about Glass catfish
Here is a list of some cool facts about Ghost catfish which you will shock to learn:
- Some of the catfish can even detect electromagnetic waves. This is the reason scientists are trying to understand how this thing can benefit patients with Parkinson’s and Epilepsy.
- The Ghost catfish are also known as the Glass catfish, X-ray fish because of its transparent body.
- Their transparent body helps them to save from predators.
- Another cool fact is that they will show no appetite when they are alone. But you will find them much more active and happier with their similar-minded species.
- This delicate catfish can live up to 7 to 8 years with proper care and attention.
FAQ’S Related to Glass Catfish
On account of their nature, having approximately 6 fish in the 30-gallon tank is the most excellent choice. This usually means having 1 Glass Catfish for every 5 gallons. You have to give them lots of space since if not, health dangers can arise. Diseases and other expansion defects can pop up in case you overcrowd your tank.
Due to their calm temperament, they should always be kept at five; they may be kept with other fish species of similar size and cool character. Glass catfish are highly sensitive to water quality fluctuations and pH fluctuations.
Glass catfish are great tank mates for bettas. However, based on the temperament of your betta, the opposite could be true. Therefore, you should only add glass catfish to a Betta tank if you know that your Betta has a peaceful temperament.
Even though it’s not guaranteed, glass cats may additionally take flakes. In general, you must start them out on a meaty diet of live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods and then constantly work in flake feedings. Always use high-quality flake food for transparent cats.
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Glass Catfish: Care Guide, Tank Setup & Info
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The name “Glass Catfish” refers to species of transparent freshwater fish in the Kryptopterus genus. They go by other names such as Phantom or Ghost catfish depending on the species. Glass Catfish are easily recognized by their transparent bodies that often show their skeleton and internal organs. Although Glass Catfish lack color, many fishkeepers are drawn to their unique appearance and peaceful temperaments.
- Breed Overview
The main species of Glass Catfish in the aquarium trade industry is the K. vitreolus , which we will be referring to throughout the article. Other species such as the K. minor , K. piperatus , and K. bicirrhis can be found in aquariums too. However, they are considered rarer and sometimes confused for the same species.
Glass Catfish not only have confusing taxonomic rankings, but challenging care requirements. They are sensitive to water conditions and good water quality is crucial for their survival in aquariums. Glass Catfish are not forgiving of beginner fishkeeper mistakes, which makes them a better choice for more experienced fishkeepers.
- Glass Catfish Characteristics
- Glass Catfish Cost?
Glass Catfish originate from Thailand in Southeast Asia. They are found in murky and slow-moving coastal river basins in the Cardamom Mountains and Peninsular Thailand. The K. vitreolus species have been in the aquarium trade for decades, although they were previously mislabeled as K. bicirrhis until 2013.
It is believed that K. bicirrhis is rarely found in the aquarium trade and was possibly only found in small numbers. The K. vitreolus can be found for sale around the world although they are not as common as tetras, goldfish, and many other tropical fish. However, Glass Catfish can be found for sale in pet stores and from online retailers.
They typically cost between $10 to $30, and you will need to buy more than five at a time. Glass Catfish are social and need to be kept in groups. You can expect to spend around $30 to $70 for a group of Glass Catfish.
Sociability of the Glass Catfish
- Do These Fish Make Good Pets?
Glass Catfish can be good pets for fishkeepers who have experience and knowledge of aquarium maintenance. This is because Glass Catfish are sensitive fish that should only be kept in mature aquariums. Even the slightest traces of ammonia and nitrite can be detrimental to Glass Catfish and stress them out. One of the most challenging parts of caring for Glass Catfish is keeping them alive long enough to reach at least 5 years old.
Glass Catfish cannot thrive in aquariums with frequent temperature fluctuations, ammonia spikes, or incompatible tank mates. They require a fully cycled aquarium and a well-filtered and oxygenated environment. You will need to run a heater in their aquarium alongside a thermometer to keep the temperature within an ideal range (75° to 82° Fahrenheit).
- Does This Fish Make a Good Tankmate?
Glass Catfish are incredibly social and peaceful fish with a good reputation in community aquariums. They are compatible with other similarly sized peaceful fish like Neon Tetras, Rasboras, Cherry Barbs, and Honey Gourami. You should only keep Glass Catfish in the same aquarium as other tropical fish that thrive in the same pH range. Tank mates like Goldfish, Oscars, Jack Dempsey, and African Cichlids should be avoided. Those types of fish are usually too large or aggressive to be kept with Glass Catfish.
Keep in mind that as a social species, Glass Catfish need to be kept in groups of five or more. They should never be housed alone as this can be stressful for them.
Care Guide & Tank Set Up
The minimum tank size for a group of five to six Glass Catfish is a 30-gallon long tank. Unfortunately, Glass Catfish are not suitable for small aquaria like vases and bowls.
Let’s take a look below at their tank setup requirements.
- Water Quality, pH & Temperature
Glass Catfish are tropical freshwater fish that need to be kept in mature aquariums. The ammonia and nitrite levels in the water should never fluctuate past zero. The nitrate level is tolerable up until 15 ppm before you need to do a partial water change.
The water pH range should be acidic to slightly neutral with no fluctuations. You can use alder cones or Indian almond leaves in the aquarium to keep the water pH low. Plus, they release tannins into the water which have antifungal properties.
A sandy or fine gravel substrate is recommended for Glass Catfish aquariums. The substrate should not alter the water’s chemistry nor release toxins from dyes and chemical residue. Black, brown, tan, and white substrates are preferred over brightly colored ones. There is also a risk of dyed substrates leaching toxins into the water which Glass Catfish are sensitive to.
Glass Catfish thrive in heavily planted aquariums. Live plants offer these fish benefits such as increased oxygenation, natural filtration, and shelter. Glass Catfish feel safe and become more active in planted setups than bare ones. If the aquarium is bare, you might notice that Glass Catfish try to hide behind the filter or in a corner.
- Vallisneria
- Amazon sword
A low to moderately bright aquarium light is suitable for Glass Catfish. Their aquarium does not need very bright lighting which can be stressful for them. The lighting should be kept on for 6 to 10 hours per day and turned off at night. They are active during the day and usually rest at night. It is difficult to see catfish in the dark since their bodies are transparent.
Glass Catfish inhabit slow-moving bodies of water with a slow to moderate current. This water movement should be replicated in captivity as Glassfish do not enjoy aquariums with strong water movement. The filter that you use in their aquarium should be strong enough to keep the water moving and clean, without a strong output. Sponge filters, hang-on-back (HOB), and most internal filters are suitable for Glass Catfish aquariums.
Things to Know When Owning a Glass Catfish:
- Food & Diet Requirements
Glass Catfish tend to eat a carnivorous diet in the wild consisting of worms, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. They prefer to hunt for live food and work together in groups to find available food.
In captivity, Glass Catfish should eat an omnivorous diet. Their diet should consist of live or freeze-dried foods like tubifex worms, bloodworms, daphnia, and baby brine shrimp. A tropical fish flake or pelleted food should be offered at least once or twice a day. Most Glass Catfish will attempt to eat their tank mate’s food if given the opportunity.
- Size & Growth Rate
The size of Glass Catfish varies among the different species. The K. bicirrhis is one of the largest species known to reach a length of 6.5 inches. The K. minor is a smaller species at 2.5 inches long, whereas the K. vitreolus only grows to 3 inches. Glass Catfish have a rapid growth rate within the first 6 months of their lives. Like most fish, Glass Catfish are sexually mature before they reach 12 months old, usually around the 4–6-month mark.
- vitreolus (Glass or Phantom Catfish) – This species is the most popular in aquariums and was misidentified as K. bicirrhis for a while. The Glass or Phantom Catfish have transparent bodies and fins with visible skeletons. They grow to around 2.5 to 3 inches long and have barbels near their mouths that they use to sense their environment. This species is usually what comes to mind when you think of a transparent Glass Catfish.
- bicirrhis (Asian Glass Catfish) – The K. bicirrhis is a large species of Asian Glass Catfish that grows between 5 to 6.5 inches long. They are rare in the aquarium trade industry and do not have the classic transparent body as the other species do. This species has an opaque grey body and visible skeleton, with tendril-like barbels.
- minor (Ghost Catfish) – The smaller species closely related to the K. vitreolus grows between 2 to 2.5 inches long. They are easily recognized by their small size and transparent bodies, although they are rare in aquariums. Some hobbyists believe that true K. minor Glass Catfish are not found in captivity at all.
- piperatus (Glass Catfish) – One of the rarest species infrequently found in aquariums is the K. piperatus . This species has a pale brown body with black spotting. They are not transparent like the K. vitreolus and K. minor and closely resemble the K. macrocephalus or Striped Glass Catfish. It is rare to come across the K. piperatus in captivity.
Due to the variations in the species , it is better to refer to them by their scientific name rather than their common name. Most Glass Catfish share similar common names, such as Phantom, Asian, or Ghost catfish.
- Lifespan and Health Conditions
The average lifespan for Glass Catfish is between 5 to 8 years. Part of the reason they are suited for experienced fish keepers is because they are not hardy fish. Glass Catfish are sensitive to changes and their environment and require specific conditions to thrive.
If their proper conditions are not met, Glass Catfish are susceptible to serious health problems caused by poor water quality and stress.
- Ammonia toxicity
- Ich or white spot disease
- Bacterial diseases
- Fungal diseases
- Nitrite toxicity
Unfortunately, many Glass Catfish die before you get a chance to treat them for a specific health problem. They are very delicate fish that are difficult to care for.
- Male vs Female
The differences between a male and female Glass Catfish are subtle. Hobbyists usually have a difficult time telling the sexes apart, since their transparent bodies make it confusing. However, male Glass Catfish are believed to be slightly smaller and slenderer than females with triangular heads. Breeding Glass Catfish in captivity is challenging, even expert fishkeepers struggle.
3 Little-Known Facts About Glass Catfish
- 1. Glass Catfish are transparent because their bodies lack pigment.
- 2. They do not have scales like most species of catfish.
- 3. Glass Catfish have a tiny and nearly invisible dorsal fin.
- Final Thoughts
If you are an experienced fishkeeper looking for transparent fish to liven up your aquarium, the Glass Catfish is worth considering. They have transparent bodies with visible skeletons, and the most common species (K. vitreolus) rarely exceeds 3 inches in size.
There are three main factors to keep in mind when caring for Glass Catfish—water quality, tank mates, and setup. Water quality is important for Glass Catfish, and they should only be kept in cycled aquariums that have been running for a few months. Furthermore, Glass Catfish thrive in heated, filtered, and planted aquariums over 30 gallons long. While Glass Catfish are compatible with other peaceful fish, they still need to be kept in groups of at least five or six.
Overall, Glass Catfish make unique additions to aquariums with their transparent bodies and schooling behavior.
- See Also: Bloodfin Tetra: Care Guide, Pictures, Tank Setup, and Info
- Kryptopterus vitreolus (fishbase.se)
- Kryptopterus vitreolus – Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus bicirrhis, Kryptopterus minor) — Seriously Fish
- Glass Catfish: Biology and Care (webmd.com)
- Kryptopterus macrocephalus – Striped Glass Catfish (Kryptopterichthys macrocephalus) — Seriously Fish
Featured Image Credit: slowmotiongli, Shutterstock
Sarah Psaradelis
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Glass Catfish: care, feeding and tank mates- [2020]
One of the most interesting little creatures for your tank is that of the glass catfish also known as ghost catfish.
Become a popular freshwater fish for anyone wanting to add something different to their aquarium due to their entirely visual bodies.
Glass catfish are quite easy to look after, too. It’s not that difficult to keep these fish happy and healthy as long as you know the essentials.
In this Guide we will give you the entire overview and what you need to know about glass catfish. Food, tank mates, lifespan and much more we are talking about.
Let’s dive right in
Table of Contents
Species Summary
The freshwater fish is a Thai species of glass catfish. In Malaysia and even Cambodia, some reports have been published of such fish, yet these claims are invalid.
Rivers feeding into the Gulf of Thailand are where you can find them, but the Cardamom Mountain river basins have a condensed group.
Usually these waterways and rivers are fairly open at an average flow rate (not too fast, not too slow). While they’re not as effective as other aquariums in navigating dark waters, they still have barbels they use to feel the environment.
One thing that makes glass catfish extraordinary is that they don’t live on bottom fish, compared with many other catfish. They use most of their time to swim and explore the middle of the water rather than camp on the bottom.
This makes them a fun fish, since they are a little more active and spectacular than most catfishes. This is great, because it lets you observe and enjoy your interesting appearance as an owner more time!
Here is an Info-graphic! Have a look.
Here is the scientific classification of Glass catfish:
Lifespan of Glass fish
The average lifetime of glass catfish is from 7 to 8 years. It’s a long time that allows you to really enjoy and connect to these fish.
If you don’t give them the right tank conditions they can shorten their lifespan significantly. Ensure that you remain consistent and follow this guide ‘s recommendations if you want to make sure you live as long as you can.
The main attraction of the glass catfish is its unique look. These fish are completely translucent, as its name implies.
The advantage of this is to make it harder to find predators (like the ghost shrimps).
They are translucent, you can see through their body at first it is nearly shocking. You can clearly see their internal organs and all that ‘s happening in their system!
One of the highlights of these fish is their backbone. You can see their entire spine from their heads to the base of their caudal fin because they are so clear.
Their fins can hardly be seen as they swim around. Looking at photos is a better way to get an insight into their structure.
Caudal fins have been forked and no dorsal fin by the ghost catfish. Their small pectoral fins give them most of their vertical mobility and you see them move fast while they are swimming when you look closely.
They also have very visible organs. You sit behind your eyes near the bottom of your pectoral fins and most look like a silver dark mass.
Glass catfish, like some catfish who’s barbels, have barbels which stretch out from their heads, which fall behind them while they swim.
Size of Glass Catfish
The medium length of this glass catfish is 4-6 cm. This is larger than many aquariums think, perhaps because there are many translucent fish on the smaller side.
Genetics and quality of care affect their size. Hence, it is very important for you to take the best care of this fish to make sure they live a healthy life and can grow its length as large as possible.
Glass catfish care
When you know the basics, glass catfish care is quite simple. You need to navigate no major obstacles. Instead, everything is consistency and the right tank, water , and food conditions are provided to them.
The rest of this guide explores the essential elements of the care of glass catfishes and what you have to know to thrive.
A minimum tank of 30-gallons does the best for glass catfish . This is presumable because about 5 of them are in the same tank as they are not good when kept alone (in the section of tank mates we will cover that in more detail).
This tank size enables them to swim around comfortably and have the social commitment and security a school offers. It is not advisable to go to a smaller tank because this requires less of it (with other inconveniences).
Water parameters
While glass catfish care is very easy, their strict water parameters definitely need to be taken seriously. There is no acceptable window at these levels , which means that the margin for error is slim.
This requires you to have a solid knowledge of these fish in general and to be familiar with fly level adjustment. While it may sound at first intimidating, it’s something with which you’ll improve over time.
It could be a good idea to keep some hardy fish for a long time, if you don’t believe you ‘re prepared for that yet. That is an excellent way to practice risk-free maintenance and adjustment.
- Water temperature: 77°F would be an ideal temperature.
- pH levels: 6.5
- Water hardness: 8-10 dGH
Aquarium tank setup
You will want to look at their natural environment when creating the perfect habitat for ghost catfish in order to imitate it as effectively as possible.
Their tanks should be open enough for free swimming. There are too many obstacles or obstacles to it, so make sure they don’t feel too tight.
You will also want to ensure that in their aquarium there are plants too. The waters from which ghost catfish are produced have plant life which they can use to hide.
Replicating it in your tank will give you a sense of comfort and security, because plants are known to use as shelter. Try starter plants such as hornwort or java moss.
Another thing you would like for setting up a tank for glass catfish is a soft substratum. These fish do not last as many other catfish, so that anything which can cut them will probably happen.
Keep them safe and reduce the risk of infection if possible by giving them a pleasant sandy substratum. Finally, you ‘re going to want to consider flowing water as well.
To give them the correct current, you don’t need to do anything special, just be aware that they can’t have static water. The currents in its natural habitat are on the moderate side, so that any average flow configuration works well.
You might want to check out these articles:
Jaguar Cichlid: care, feeding, breeding and tank mates- [2020]
Hillstream loach: Complete care and guide- [2020]
Common Diseases
If you look at the recommended water parameters, glass catfish care might look a bit intimidating but it’s all down hill. There are no diseases of any kind that you need to be concerned about when these fish are involved.
Make sure to provide a balanced diet and maintain water quality with high-quality food. If that is done, you will greatly reduce the risk that freshwater fish develop some of the common health problems.
Feeding and Diet
These catfish eat mainly zooplankton and other small worms or invertebrates. In the wild. They are still selective feeders while living in the center of the water column. Small fish (baby guppies) and mosquito larvas have been known for eating.
Consider even preparing your own fish food so you don’t just get the best diet, you just feed your fish with the best ingredients.
In captivity, glass catfish food should imitate their diet in the wild to the fullest. The aim is to achieve a balanced diet with a number of food sources.
A strong pellet or flake food is a good place to start, and you’ll give it every day. This food serves as the backbone of your diet and guarantees that you get your nutrients.
There are also some high protein sources such as bloodworms, shrimps and daphnia. You won’t feed it all too often on your fantasy catfish, but you should be fine a couple of times a week. This will ensure that the variety is added (you can get frozen or live) and you will never have a protein deficit.
Be sure to keep an eye on them while eating to make sure they eat the food you give them. Also, make sure that they are not bullied and stopped eating fish.
Feeding these fishermen happy and healthy once or twice a day. Be sure to feed them in just a few minutes as much as they eat. Excess fish feed in your tank leads to overfeeding nutrients, which can result in large quantities of algae and bacteria.
It is important to ensure that they get the food they are fed, due to their shy nature. Even in peace, certain fish of other species are more active in eating and can frighten your Glass Catfish.
Once you find out which fish are more active in the feeding process, you can then methodically feed your fish to ensure that all fish have food. Try to feed the fish on one side of the tank before you add food to that tank.
This allows the more active fish to eat first and then the slower, shy fish to eat.
We recommend Feeding these type of food for glass catfish:
- Grindal Worms
- Brine Shrimp
However, they will eat a wide range of pellets or flakes in your tank.
Behavior & Temperament
When it comes to behavior of glass catfish, Most of the Aquarists are surprised at first. Glass catfish are very active when it comes activeness. They spend most of their time swimming around aquarium tank with their fellow tank mates. However, rarely spend most of their tank on substrate.
Instead, they ‘re going to gravitate more toward investigating the center of the tank when they’re not ducking in and out of whatever plants you’ve got in the aquarium.
Glass catfish are very peaceful, too. In spite of their relatively active nature, they are fish that want to keep an eye on their own business. They never trouble with any other animals in the tank. This is a great news because it gives you a lot of options when it comes to finding your right tank mates.
Your glass catfish will stick to their group as well, so it’s extremely rare to see one far away. Therefore, if you want to thrive, you need to keep them in a group of at least 5 or more.
Glass Catfish Tank mates
In this section, we will guide you through choosing of right tank mates for your glass catfish. You are able to choose from a large number of glass catfish tank mates. These fish can live together with a variety of other animals in community tanks.
When it comes to finding the right glass tank matches you will want to keep an eye on both things are size and aggression. Fish that are considerably larger can be an issue, because your glass catfish might be considered a snack!
Aggression is also something that you want to avoid, because ghost catfish ‘s soft temperament works against them. They ‘re just too peaceful to stand alone.
Here are the right tank mates for your glass catfish to get you started:
- Kuhli Loach
- Cory catfish
This is not all possible option for tank mate. Feel free to search and explore other compatible fish. Tons of options are available!
Keeping Glass Catfish together
For glass catfish the only absolutely required tank mate is more of its own nature. They are school fish that means that they stick closely together to protect themselves.
A glass of catfish alone is constantly stressful and can have a significant effect on your health and life. Although it could mean that you can keep these in a smaller tank, the fish are not fair.
Try to keep them healthy and happy by a school of 5 or more. Smaller numbers can be bullying between the fish, or they can feel uncertain.
Breeding of Glass Catfish
Glass catfish breeding is something which is not done in captivity very often. While it has been done successfully, it is rare and the best approach for this species is not very well known there.
A fundamental understanding of their natural breeding patterns is essential if you are trying to breed glass catfish. Due to the lack of documentation on the process, you will need to apply these guidance.
The most important thing to do is make the tank fit to promote the process. The decrease of a few degrees of water temperature is a good starting point, since it imitates the time of year when it normally spreads.
In this time , some people recommended that a little bit of fresh water be put into the tank to replicate precipitation too. Although the effectiveness of this is not proven, it’s probably not a bad idea to try it, since this process is so difficult.
You will experience several different interactions between a breeding pair if you successfully launch the breeding process. The couple face to face and reach each other with their barbels are one of the reported behaviors. It’s a good sign if you see that!
If breeding succeeds, you will see their eggs in some plants that are available in their tanks (leafy plants are ideal).
You will have to feed protein-rich foods to help them grow once they have hatched. Baby brine shrimps are a common recommendation.
Concluding Thoughts!
Glass catfish treatments make all aquarists enjoy an enjoyable and rewarding experience. These fish are unbelievably unique and enjoyable to watch and add a completely different dynamic to any tank.
The one most relevant things to remember to take water parameters and levels very seriously in terms of keeping ghost catfish alive and healthy. This should be your highest priority for this fish species. These fish are highly sensitive to water changes and not resistant to any imagination.
This can, however, be managed as long as you are consistent and aware of the process.
Therefore we don’t consider it difficult to care for glass catfish. They are super low maintenance outside of the water parameters!
They make big tank mates, they look great and are fun and active and appreciated by all aquariums. No downside, really!
We are all ears, if you have feedback or proposals about this care guide. All we care about is to provide the best possible info, so every additional assistance is welcome!
About Author
Hey, I am Praful Kharade, a Blogger, a Data scientist, and the Founder of Planet Fish. This is one of my Hobby Blogs that focuses on Aquatic animals, Reptiles, and Fish Keeping.
3 thoughts on “Glass Catfish: care, feeding and tank mates- [2020]”
Hi gud pm Can Glass catfish tank mates with Angel fish ?.? Thanks
Yes, you can keep them with Angel fishes as both of them are peaceful in nature! Just make sure to provide them a natural environment.
I purchased a single glass catfish a while back (was not told they were schooling fish) bought 5 more today, I had Zebra danios (moved today) and I have 3 corydora catfish and a yoyo loach with them…my son noticed tiny little blackish lines in the tank when we looked harder they are fry, they look like the glass catfish but I have not been able to find any images of babies or info about babies. Can you help?
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Ghost Catfish
About the ghost catfish – species summary.
The Ghost Catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus vitreolus, is an ethereal presence in any aquarium due to its translucent body, which is where its name originates. Hailing from the freshwater rivers of Thailand, they are a species of “ glass catfish ” which are known for their nearly transparent bodies. Their fascinating appearance and relatively peaceful nature make them a favorite for many aquarium enthusiasts, but their care requires a keen eye and understanding of their natural habitats.
Ghost Catfish Lifespan
When maintained under optimal conditions, Ghost Catfish have an average lifespan of 5 to 7 years. Their life expectancy can be influenced by various factors such as diet, tank conditions, and the overall environment.
The Ghost Catfish’s most striking feature is its translucent body, which allows one to see its bones and internal organs. This transparency serves as camouflage in their native river habitats. When healthy, they exhibit a silver band running from their head to the base of their tail.
Average Size
Typically, the Ghost Catfish reaches an adult size of about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length.
Ghost Catfish Care
A minimum of a 20-gallon tank is recommended for the Ghost Catfish. Since they are schooling fish, they should be kept in groups, preferably of at least 5 or 6, necessitating a reasonably spacious environment.
How To Set Up Their Tank
Ghost Catfish prefer tanks with subdued lighting and plenty of hiding places. A darker substrate, along with live plants and driftwood, can provide the shelter and security they seek. Floating plants can also be used to diffuse overhead lighting.
Lighting Requirements
Given their preference for subdued lighting, opt for lower-intensity lights or use floating plants to diffuse brighter lighting, protecting the catfish from stress.
A pH level between 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for the Ghost Catfish.
Temperature
The water temperature should be maintained between 72°F and 80°F. Consistency is crucial as sudden changes can be stressful for the Ghost Catfish.
Water Parameters
Soft to medium water hardness is suitable. Regular water changes and monitoring for ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites are essential for their well-being.
Disease Potential
Ghost Catfish can be prone to common freshwater diseases if the tank isn’t maintained. Regularly check for signs of ich, fin rot, or fungal infections. Their transparent bodies often make it easier to identify internal parasites or problems.
Food & Diet
Being omnivores, Ghost Catfish consume both plant-based and meat-based foods. Feed them a balanced diet of high-quality flakes or pellets, combined with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.
Behavior and Temperament
These fish are relatively peaceful and are best known for their schooling behavior. In the wild, they rely on their group for navigation and protection. In an aquarium setting, they can become stressed or disoriented if kept alone.
Ghost Catfish can coexist with other peaceful, non-aggressive fish of similar size. Tetras, rasboras , and certain types of gouramis can make suitable tank mates. However, avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive fish that might view them as prey.
Breeding Ghost Catfish in a home aquarium is challenging and rarely documented. They require specific conditions, including soft, acidic water and live foods, to trigger spawning. Even with these conditions met, success is not guaranteed, making them one of the more elusive species to breed in captivity.
Ghost Catfish FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Apple snail, nerite snail, supernova crayfish.
COMMENTS
Heater and Thermometer: Ghost Catfish require stable water temperatures between 72°F and 82°F. A reliable heater and thermometer will help maintain these temperatures consistently. Aquarium Substrate: Use a darker substrate, like black sand or gravel, which helps create an ideal environment and brings out their natural translucent coloration.
C Care Guides Glass Catfish Care: Food, Tank Mates, Lifespan & More! by Millie Sheppard Updated: July 1, 2023 78.9K views The glass catfish (sometimes referred to as ghost catfish) is one of the more interesting little critters you can get for your tank.
Behaviour (Temperament) If you ever wanted a fish that was extremely peaceful and keeps to itself, then you are in the right place. Ghost catfish are calm and peaceful and almost never bother other fish. While this is great for tankmates, it can work against the catfish in that being peaceful sometimes attracts bullies.
of aquatic plants. Description of Ghost Glass Catfish This is a relatively small fish species. In aquariums, the average size of adult Ghost Glass Catfish is about 2 - 3 inches (6 - 8 cm) in total length. Distinguishing characteristics of Kryptopterus vitreolus: Body shape.
Habitat in the wild The glass catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus spp., belongs to the family Siluridae. The Siluridae family is a group of catfish commonly referred to as "sheatfish" or "sheatfish catfish." They are predominantly freshwater fish found in Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
Glass Catfish do best when kept at a steady temperature of 75F, but they can tolerate a temperature range slightly warmer up to 80F and 6.5 to 7.0 pH.
The glass catfish ( Kryptopterus vitreolus ), also known as the ghost catfish, or the phantom catfish, is a unique species of small catfish native to Asia. As the name implies, these catfish have a body that is transparent, with their skeletons and internal organs clearly visible.
The Glass Catfish, also known as the Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish, ... For glass catfish, the perfect water temperature is around 77°F, with a range of 75°F to 80°F. The pH level should be around 6.5, and the water hardness should be between 8-10 dGH. Tank setup.
Remember to maintain water quality, as well as a stable water temperature between 72°F and 80°F, which is vital for their well-being. In summary, to keep your Glass Catfish happy and healthy, it's essential to mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible in your aquarium.
Healthy Pets Reference What to Know About Glass Catfish Medically Reviewed by Vanesa Farmer, DVM on January 05, 2023 Written by Sarah Vallie What Are Glass Catfish? Why Are Glass Catfish...
Kryptopterus Scientific Name Kryptopterus vitreolus Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals. Ghost Catfish Conservation Status Least Concern Ghost Catfish Locations Asia Ghost Catfish Facts Prey Larvae, worms Group Behavior School Fun Fact You can see its heart beating
Water Temperature. The Glass Catfish require a temperature of 77°F, and it is very important to keep the temperature within the 75°F to 80°F range. pH. The Glass Catfish need water with a pH of 6.5. Hardness. The optimal water hardness for Glass Catfish ranges from 8 to 10 dGH.
Overview There are several different species that are known as Glass Catfish but the Kryptopterus vitreolus is the most common. This is the fish that we will be discussing in this article. Glass Catfish are endemic to Thailand and are also known as the Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish.
Common Names : Ghost Catfish, Glass Cat. Care Level : Moderate. Size : 2.5 - 3" (8 cm) pH : 6 - 7. Temperature : 70 to 79°F (21 - 26°C) Lifespan : 7-8 years. Origin / Habitat : Asia, Borneo. Temperament / Behavior : Peaceful, Timid. It should be kept in a school of at least 6. Will not bother tank mates and should be kept with other peaceful ...
Habitat and Tank Conditions Diet Care Breeding Is a Glass Catfish Suitable for your Aquarium? Glass Catfish Facts & Overview The Glass Catfish has many names including Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish. All of these are common names that apply to several different species of skeleton catfish.
Water Parameters The Glass Catfish is a hardy fish that can adapt to a variety of water conditions. However, it prefers water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 and a temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C). This fish also prefers moderate water movement and a well-established filtration system. Diet
Kryptopterus vitreolus is commonly known as the glass catfish, ghost glass catfish, ghost catfish, or phantom catfish. Their species name, ... like cut-up brine shrimp and worms. The temperature should also be slowly returned to their preferred range of 75-80° F (23.9-26.7° C). When the fry cannot be easily eaten by the adults, they may be ...
Tank Size Glass Catfish require at least a 30-gallon tank. They require adequate space to school and swim together as they see fit. Because they are so shy, the larger aquarium allows them to feel more secure in their surroundings. They will thrive in a tank of at least 30 gallons.
In order for these fish to stay happy and healthy, they need steady water parameters (such as temperature and pH levels) within the recommended range, regular partial tank changes, plenty of hiding places in their habitat, an adequate diet suited to this species, and compatible tank mates.
The water temperature for an aquarium should be maintained at: 75- 80 degrees Fahrenheit, PH 6.5 to 7 and. Have a very moderate water flow. The bigger the aquarium is, the more a catfish will feel safer and happier. So, the recommended quantity of water is at least 30 gallons per tank.
Glass Catfish cannot thrive in aquariums with frequent temperature fluctuations, ammonia spikes, or incompatible tank mates. ... (Ghost Catfish) - The smaller species closely related to the K. vitreolus grows between 2 to 2.5 inches long. They are easily recognized by their small size and transparent bodies, although they are rare in ...
Water temperature: 77°F would be an ideal temperature. pH levels: 6.5; Water hardness: 8-10 dGH; ... The waters from which ghost catfish are produced have plant life which they can use to hide. Replicating it in your tank will give you a sense of comfort and security, because plants are known to use as shelter. ...
Temperature: 72°F - 80°F (22°C - 27°C) Water Conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, Soft to Medium hardness: About the Ghost Catfish - Species Summary. The Ghost Catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus vitreolus, is an ethereal presence in any aquarium due to its translucent body, which is where its name originates. ...