Our Guide To Keeping Glass Catfish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Kryptopterus vitreolus
- Common name: Glass Catfish
- Family: Siluridae
- Origin: Rivers and streams in Thailand
- Adult length: 8-10 cm
- Lifespan: 7 to 8 years
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Tank Setup:
- Glass Catfish prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended for a small school of these fish.
- Provide ample hiding places and areas with gentle water flow to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Moss, Java Fern, and floating plants.
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Water Parameters:
- Glass Catfish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides such flow.
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Diet:
- Glass Catfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Glass Catfish are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six individuals to prevent stress and encourage their natural behaviors.
- They are compatible with other peaceful community fish such as other tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, and small catfish species.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Glass Catfish are active swimmers and display schooling behavior, so they feel more secure and exhibit their best colors when kept in a group.
- Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may intimidate or harass them.