Fin's Fish Guide
The Glass catfish (Kryptopterus geminus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Siluridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The glass catfish is a catfish (Siluridae) from slow-flowing fresh water of Sundaland and the Mekong basin in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a strongly translucent, laterally compressed body through which the backbone and organs show, with two long barbels and no dorsal fin. As a schooling fish it hovers in the open water column of rivers and snaps at small zooplankton and insect larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Glass catfish?
The Glass catfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Glass catfish live?
The Glass catfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Asia: Cambodia, Laos, Viet Nam, Thailand
How big does the Glass catfish get?
The Glass catfish grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Glass catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Glass catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Glass catfish edible?
Yes, the Glass catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Kryptopterus
More from the family Siluridae
Want the complete picture on the Glass catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Glass catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.