Not furry, but we like them anyway.

African Glass Catfish

Pareutropius debauwi (Boulenger, 1900)

SpeciesShort profile

From Central Africa: the Congo River basin and coastal rivers of Gabon and the Republic of the Congo such as the Ogooue, Nyanga, Rembo Ngove; also recorded in Angola.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Length12.6 to 15 cm1 2

Lifespan8 years2

Sizesmall

Active by day, unusual for a catfish

Lively schooling display

Peaceful toward tankmates

2 1

Looks how to spot one

Slender, compressed, scaleless body

A silvery, flattened little catfish with a short dorsal fin, one pair of chin barbels and a dark band running along the middle of each side. Unlike the Asian glass catfish, it is not truly see-through.2

Colourssilverdark mid-lateral banddark line along the anal fin base2

Personality what they are like

A peaceful, sociable fish that is busy during the day and moves as a tight school.2 1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very active midwater swimmer that appreciates open swimming room and some current.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Give a roomy tank with open space, moderate flow and slightly subdued light; breeding at home is not recommended.2

Home where they are happiest

Tropical water of 23 to 26 C with pH 6.5 to 7.5 and a moderate current.2

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Mainly eats insects in nature; in the aquarium accepts flakes, granules, frozen foods, Daphnia, mosquito larvae and brine shrimp.2 1

Company who they like around

Keep a large group, ideally ten or more, so it feels secure and shows natural schooling.2 1

The story where it all began

Boulenger described the species in 1900. It is widespread in central African rivers, where its breeding is tied to the flood season, and it has long been traded as a lively schooling catfish.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Its genus name refers to a well-keeled, compressed body shape.2
2
Unlike most catfish it is strongly active during daylight.2
3
Spawning lines up with flood periods, and the parents leave the eggs unguarded.2
4
It is a true schooling fish that forms groups in the wild.1

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 16 February 2009)1
Taxonomy: Described by Boulenger in 19001
Family: Schilbeidae (schilbid catfishes)1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an African Glass Catfish. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

FeedingSmall amounts once or twice a dayevery day
Temperature checkevery day
Water changeAbout 25% of the waterevery week
Water testevery week
Glass cleanevery week
Filter rinseRinse in old tank water, never tap waterevery month

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my African Glass Catfish?

Feed small amounts once or twice daily. Furry Diary's plan suggests daily feeding with a variety of foods like flakes, granules, and frozen treats. Always check the food label and consult your vet for exact portions.2 1 Pet Wiki plan

What does an African Glass Catfish eat, and what should it never eat?

In the wild they eat insects; in the aquarium they enjoy flakes, granules, frozen foods, daphnia, mosquito larvae, and brine shrimp. The input does not specify foods to avoid, so ask your vet or a good breeder for a safe diet plan.2 1

How much space does an African Glass Catfish need?

They need a roomy tank with open swimming space and a moderate current. Because they should be kept in a group of ten or more, a larger tank is ideal. For exact tank size, check with a good breeder or aquarium specialist.2

What temperature, light or water does an African Glass Catfish need?

Keep water temperature at 23, 26°C with a pH of 6.5, 7.5 and a moderate current. Provide slightly subdued lighting as bright light can be stressful.2

How often should I clean an African Glass Catfish's home?

Furry Diary's plan recommends a weekly 25% water change and water test, along with cleaning the glass. Rinse the filter monthly in old tank water, never in tap water. Pet Wiki plan

Can an African Glass Catfish live with others?

Yes, they are peaceful and sociable, thriving in a large school of ten or more of their own kind. They can also live with other peaceful fish, but always research compatibility and ask your vet or breeder for advice.2 1

How long does an African Glass Catfish live?

With proper care, your African Glass Catfish can live up to 8 years.2

Can I handle an African Glass Catfish?

It is best not to handle them, as their delicate scaleless body can be easily damaged and handling causes stress. If you must move them, use a soft net. The input does not cover handling details, so consult your vet or a good breeder.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Glass Catfish

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

FishBase: Pareutropius debauwi fishbase.seused for distribution, size, IUCN, family, schooling, diet
Wikipedia: Pareutropius debauwi en.wikipedia.orgused for appearance, lifespan, water parameters, diet, care, etymology

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.