Species profile
Glass Catfish
Kryptopterus vitreolus
Peaceful
Moderate care
120 L minimum aquarium
6–8 cm adult size
Midwater
Minimum group: 8
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Transparent, shy shoaling catfish that needs a sizeable group, subdued cover and clean stable water.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
Up to 20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 8
Tank zone
Midwater
Territory level
None
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
0.8
Often hovers in a tight shoal and becomes stressed when kept singly or in very small groups. Avoid aggressive tankmates.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
Yes
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
120 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Kryptopterus vitreolus
Alternative names
Glass Catfish, Ghost Catfish, Asian Glass Catfish
Native range
Peninsular Thailand.
Natural habitat
Slow-flowing lowland freshwater habitats with vegetation and cover.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on small zooplankton/invertebrates and tiny prey; use appropriately sized prepared and frozen/live foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External sexual dimorphism is poorly documented and not reliable for normal aquarium selection.
Breeding
Reliable routine aquarium breeding information is limited; do not present speculative recipes as established.