(TB) Thailand Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus)

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.