Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The African Glass Catfish, also referred to as the Striped African Glass Catfish, are found in rivers and floodplains across the countries of Nigeria, Niger, Mali, Benin and Guinea of northwest Africa. As their name describes, the African glass catfish has a somewhat transparent body in which you can observe their internal skeletal features in addition to a dark midlateral stripe along the body. A unique addition into the community aquarium, African glass catfish do have some specific environmental requirements in order to thrive (see ‘Care Requirements’ section). African glass catfish are a tight schooling fish, requiring at least 6 to 8 individuals to avoid skittishness. An adult African glass catfish can reach a size of approximately 3″.

Diet Requirements: In the wild African glass catfish are thought to be primarily insectivorous. A diet made up of various high quality frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and calanus are important. You can offer dried foods, such as pellets or flakes, in moderation. Foods that contain Spirulina algae are a plus. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of African glass catfish. This species should not be introduced into a biologically immature aquarium, as they are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters favorable (Nitrates < 15 ppm), as African glass catfish are sensitive to deteriorating water parameters. Given the environments in which they come from, African glass catfish like generous water flow. The aquarium should be aquascaped in such a way that there are dense areas of live plants, in addition to plenty of open swimming space. Driftwood and floating plants will give your African glass catfish a sense of added security. African glass catfish are extremely peaceful and rarely conflict with tank mates. Their timid nature, however, may make them not suitable for typical community aquariums that have overly rambunctious species. Mix African glass catfish with fish that have a similar temperament, and those that will not outcompete them in food resources. Recommended water conditions, 76-82° F, KH 5-15, pH 6.0-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1-1/2” to 2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.