Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus vitreolus

Glass Catfish is a peaceful middle swimmer. Keep in a school of 10+.

PeacefulMiddle swimmerKeep in a school of 10+Beginner – Intermediate

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm)
Aquarium size
29 US gal (110 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Middle swimmer
Temperature
73–81°F (23–27°C)
pH
6.5–7.5
GH
1–12 dGH
KH
8–12 dKH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 8 years
Group behavior
Keep in a school of 10+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 8 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 29 US gal (110 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 23–27 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 1–12 dGH, KH 8–12 dKH.

Temperament and compatibility

Glass Catfish is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 10+.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 10+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Glass Catfish should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 29 US gal (110 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length.
  • Make room for its social group.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Keep in a school of 10+.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Thailand.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

African Banded Barb Barbus fasciolatus Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 70–79°F (21–26°C) African Spottail Tetra Brachypetersius altus Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Araguaia Corydoras Corydoras araguaiaensis Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 70–79°F (21–26°C) Arowana Tetra Gnathocharax steindachneri Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Aru Rainbowfish Melanotaenia picta Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.5" (≤ 9 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Bandula Barb Pethia bandula Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 1.8" (≤ 4.5 cm) 68–81°F (20–27°C)

FAQ

How large does Glass Catfish get?

Glass Catfish reaches ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm).

What aquarium size does Glass Catfish need?

Use an aquarium of at least 29 US gal (110 L) or larger / ≥ 35.4" (≥ 90 cm) minimum length.

Is Glass Catfish peaceful?

Yes. Glass Catfish is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Glass Catfish?

Keep it between 23 to 27 °C.

Should Glass Catfish be kept alone or in a group?

Glass Catfish: Keep in a school of 10+.

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