Description
Thailand Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus)
📌 Basic Info
-
Scientific Name: Kryptopterus vitreolus
-
Family: Siluridae
-
Origin: Thailand, Cambodia
-
Size: 4 – 5 inches (10 – 12 cm)
-
Lifespan: 7 – 8 years
-
Tank Zone: Mid-water
🌊 Water Parameters
-
TDS: 120 – 250 ppm
-
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
-
Temperature: 23 – 27°C (74 – 80°F)
-
Hardness: 5 – 12 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
-
Transparent body with visible spine and organs.
-
Graceful, elongated body with long whiskers (barbels).
-
Peaceful, shoaling species; prefers groups of 6 or more.
-
Sensitive to water quality and sudden changes.
🍽️ Food
-
Type: Carnivorous (micro-predator)
-
Diet: Live/frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, bloodworms); may accept small pellets.
-
Feeding Schedule: 2 times daily; prefers moving food in the water column.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
-
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a school.
-
Filtration: Gentle, well-oxygenated water; avoid strong currents.
-
Decor: Plants, driftwood, subdued lighting; open swimming space required.
-
Water Changes: 25–30% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
-
Peaceful shoaling fish; must be kept in groups.
-
Excellent community fish with other calm, small species.
✅ Do’s
-
Keep in groups of at least 6–8.
-
Maintain clean, well-oxygenated water.
-
Use live/frozen foods to ensure proper feeding.
❌ Don’ts
-
Don’t keep singly or in pairs; they become stressed.
-
Avoid aggressive or boisterous tank mates.
-
Don’t expose to strong currents or bright lights.
⭐ Quick Tips
-
Thailand Glass Catfish is one of the most unique and beautiful transparent fish.
-
Needs stable, clean conditions and group environment to thrive.
-
Best suited for aquarists with moderate to advanced experience.
