What size tank does a Glass Catfish Indian need?

Glass Catfish Indian needs a minimum of 40 gallons, with 60 gallons recommended. They are middle swimmers. Keep in groups of 5+.

Is Glass Catfish Indian good for beginners?

Glass Catfish Indian is rated "advanced" difficulty (3/5). Suitable for intermediate fishkeepers.

What fish are compatible with Glass Catfish Indian?

Glass Catfish Indian is peaceful. Compatible tank mates include other peaceful fish with similar water parameters (pH 6.5-7.5, temp 72-82°F).

Glass Catfish Indian

Kryptopterus bicirrhis

Family: Siluridae • Origin: Various

Glass Catfish Indian (Kryptopterus bicirrhis) is a peaceful catfish reaching 6 inches. Keep in groups of 5+. Minimum tank size: 40 gallons.

Min Tank

40 gal

Max Size

Temperature

72-82°F

6.5-7.5

Lifespan

9 years

School Size

Swim Level

middle

Hardness

5-15 dGH

peacefuladvancedomnivoreschooling

Is Glass Catfish Indian Right for Your Tank?

Glass Catfish Indian is a moderate-care fish rated "advanced" (3/5). Suitable for hobbyists with some experience who can maintain stable water parameters. They need at least 40 gallons — a mid-size tank commitment. Plan your space accordingly.

With a peaceful temperament, Glass Catfish Indian makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. This is a schooling species — keep at least 5 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. Expected lifespan: 9 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Glass Catfish Indian

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Keeping fewer than 5 together

Glass Catfish Indian is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 5 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Glass Catfish Indian needs 72–82°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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Putting them in a tank under 40 gallons

Many beginners underestimate tank size needs. Glass Catfish Indian requires at least 40 gallons — ideally 60. Cramped tanks lead to stunted growth, aggression, and poor water quality.