The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is a fascinating freshwater species best known for its completely transparent body, allowing its internal organs and backbone to be visible. A peaceful schooling fish, it adds unique beauty and elegance to community aquariums.
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The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is a fascinating freshwater species best known for its completely transparent body, allowing its internal organs and backbone to be visible. A peaceful schooling fish, it adds unique beauty and elegance to community aquariums.
Slender, elongated body that is completely transparent, with a visible backbone and faint silvery sheen. They lack scales and are almost invisible in water except for their internal organs and subtle shimmer. Adults reach about 3–4 inches in length.
6–8 years (with good care)
Carnivorous; prefers live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Will also accept high-quality micro pellets and flakes once acclimated.
Glass Catfish are among the most unique and captivating fish in the aquarium world. Their transparency and peaceful schooling behavior make them a stunning addition to community aquariums. However, they require stable, clean water and a calm environment, making them best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide consistent care.
Intermediate to Advanced (sensitive to water quality and stress).
30 gallons (larger recommended for schools of 6+)
6.5 to 7.5
5–12 dGH
75–80°F (24–27°C)
3–4 inches
Peaceful community fish such as rasboras, tetras, dwarf gouramis, corydoras, and small rainbowfish. Best with calm species that will not outcompete them for food.
Aggressive or fast fish such as tiger barbs, large cichlids, or fin-nippers. Avoid keeping them with very large fish that may see them as food.
Kryptopterus vitreolus
Siluridae
Southeast Asia – Thailand (Chao Phraya Basin and nearby rivers)
Highly social; must be kept in groups of at least 6. Schooling fish that swim in unison, providing a stunning visual effect.
Feed small portions 2–3 times daily with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp. Once acclimated, they will take micro pellets or crushed flakes. Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality.
pH: 6.5–7.5, Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C), Hardness: 5–12 dGH, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: <20 ppm
Prone to ich, bacterial infections, and stress-related illnesses if kept in small groups or poor water conditions. Sensitive to sudden water parameter changes.
Peaceful, shy, and best kept in schools of 6 or more. They are mid-water swimmers and thrive in calm, well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spaces. Sensitive to stress and water quality fluctuations.
The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus), also known as the Ghost Catfish, is a truly unique species in the aquarium hobby. Native to slow-moving rivers and streams in Thailand, this catfish is entirely transparent, making it one of the few fish in the world where you can see its internal organs. Their delicate appearance and gentle schooling behavior make them highly desirable for aquarists who want a peaceful, elegant display. Glass Catfish require pristine water conditions, a calm tank environment, and should always be kept in groups to prevent stress. When kept properly, they become highly active, graceful swimmers that bring a touch of the extraordinary to freshwater aquariums.