The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is an enchanting addition to any aquarium, recognized for its transparent body, which makes it seem almost invisible except for its bones and organs. This intriguing appearance and its peaceful demeanor have made the Glass Catfish a favorite in the aquarium hobby.
Appearance:
Glass Catfish are unique in their clear bodies, allowing you to see right through them. Their delicate, ghostly look gives them their other common names, such as Ghost Catfish or Phantom Catfish. These fish can grow to around 10 cm in length, and unlike many other catfish species, they are mid-water swimmers rather than bottom dwellers.
Natural Habitat:
In the wild, Glass Catfish are found in the calm, slow-moving rivers and streams of Southeast Asia, particularly in central Thailand. These waters are usually heavily vegetated and dimly lit, which is why aquariums that replicate these conditions with plants, subdued lighting, and peaceful tankmates are ideal for Glass Catfish.
Tank Requirements:
Glass Catfish thrive in aquariums that closely mimic their natural habitat. A tank size of at least 100 liters is recommended for a small group of 5-6 fish. These fish are schooling species and feel more secure when kept in groups. Provide plenty of live plants, driftwood, and hiding places. They prefer soft, acidic water, with a pH range of 4.0 to 7.0, and a temperature range of 20-26°C.
Tank Mates:
Glass Catfish are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them excellent candidates for community tanks. Ideal tank mates include small, non-aggressive species like Tetras, Rasboras, and peaceful Gouramis. Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive fish, as their delicate nature makes them vulnerable to being bullied or eaten.
Diet:
Glass Catfish are omnivores, and their diet should include a mix of high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They prefer food that drifts down from the water's surface, as they are mid-water feeders.
Behavior:
These fish are calm and peaceful but can be a bit shy, especially in new environments. They will become more confident once they have settled in and are kept in groups. Glass Catfish spend most of their time swimming in the mid-level of the aquarium, and their transparent bodies can make them appear to be floating mysteriously in the water.
Breeding:
Breeding Glass Catfish in captivity is rare and not well-documented. They are egg-layers, but replicating the specific conditions needed for them to breed can be challenging. As such, most of the Glass Catfish found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.
 
Species Overview:
Species: Kryptopterus vitreolus
Common Names: Glass Catfish, Ghost Catfish, Phantom Catfish
Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand)
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 4.0 – 7.0
Temperature: Tropical 20-26°C
Max Size: Approximately 10 cm
Sex: Un-sexed