Ghost Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) is one of the most unique and fascinating freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. Known for their completely transparent bodies, these fish allow you to see their bones and internal organs, making them a true wonder of nature. They originate from rivers and streams in Thailand and surrounding regions, where they live in schools in slow-moving waters. Their delicate appearance and peaceful nature make them a favorite for aquarists who enjoy community tanks and unusual fish.

Appearance
The Ghost Glass Catfish is instantly recognizable thanks to its see-through body. Measuring about 4–5 inches in length, these fish have slender, elongated shapes with a faint silver sheen that reflects under aquarium lights. Their near transparency helps them blend into their environment as a defense against predators in the wild.

Behavior
These catfish are very peaceful and thrive when kept in schools. A group of at least 6 is recommended, as they can become stressed and hide constantly if kept alone. In groups, they are more confident and swim actively in the mid to upper levels of the aquarium, which is unusual for catfish. Their graceful, synchronized swimming is a beautiful sight to watch.

Tank Requirements
Ghost Glass Catfish require a well-maintained and calm environment. A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a small school. The tank should have subdued lighting, live plants, and plenty of open swimming space. They prefer gentle water flow and appreciate shaded areas created by plants or driftwood. Since they are sensitive, strong currents and aggressive tank mates should be avoided.

Water Parameters
Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: 6.5–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

Because they are sensitive to changes in water conditions, stable and clean water is essential for their health. Regular water changes and strong but gentle filtration are highly recommended.

Diet
In the wild, Ghost Glass Catfish feed on small insects, worms, and plankton. In aquariums, they accept live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Over time, many can adapt to high-quality flakes and micro pellets, though they do best with a varied diet of meaty foods. Feeding should be done carefully to ensure they get enough, as they can be shy eaters in community tanks.

Tank Mates
These fish are peaceful and do best with other gentle, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras. Avoid housing them with large or aggressive fish that might bully or outcompete them for food.

Challenges in Keeping Ghost Glass Catfish
Their main challenge is sensitivity to water quality and stress. They can become easily stressed if kept alone, exposed to aggressive tank mates, or placed in tanks with unstable water conditions. They are best suited for aquarists who can maintain a stable, peaceful environment.

Conclusion
The Ghost Glass Catfish is a truly remarkable fish that brings elegance and uniqueness to any community aquarium. Their transparent bodies, peaceful schooling behavior, and graceful swimming make them a standout species. With proper care, stable water, and a calm environment, a school of Ghost Glass Catfish can thrive and become a fascinating highlight of your tank.