Giant Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus bicirrhis is the largest and most striking member of the glass catfish group, reaching 15 cm — significantly bigger than the commonly kept K. vitreolus. Its body is almost completely transparent, with internal organs visible in a small thoracic cavity and the skeleton faintly discernible through the body wall. It bears only two barbels (hence 'bicirrhis') and lacks a dorsal fin, giving it a uniquely minimalist silhouette. In the wild it forms large schools in clear, flowing Southeast Asian rivers.

In the aquarium, K. bicirrhis requires clean, moderately flowing water and should be kept in groups of at least five individuals — lone specimens become stressed and refuse food. Unlike the smaller glass catfish, this species is a genuine predator of small invertebrates and fry, though it will not bother fish of similar size. Moderate current and good oxygenation are important; it does poorly in warm, stagnant setups.

Feeding is the main challenge — K. bicirrhis strongly prefers live and frozen invertebrates and can be reluctant to accept dry foods. Regular offerings of frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and small brine shrimp usually provide the bulk of the diet. Once settled and feeding confidently it is a spectacular, long-lived display fish.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; moderate flow; high O₂. Tank: 150 L minimum; keep in groups of 5+; moderate current; subdued lighting. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp; live foods essential initially. Breeding: Not documented in home aquaria. Compatibility: Peaceful toward similarly-sized species; will eat fry and very small fish.