More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 270 litres / 71.33 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 15.0cm / 5.91inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
The Kryptopterus Bicirrhis, commonly known as the Asian Glass Catfish, is a species that is occasionally found in the aquarium trade but has been mistaken for the closely related K. vitreolus in the past due to its lack of a transparent body. This species belongs to the Siluridae family and is native to Southeast Asia. It is primarily a predator, feeding on crustaceans, invertebrates, and small fish in the wild.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the K. Bicirrhis, it is essential to provide weakly-lit conditions and ample hiding spots as these fish prefer cover and may become skittish without it. A tank size of at least 270 litres is recommended, with water conditions falling within a pH range of 6.0-7.5, hardness of 36-268ppm, and a temperature range of 20-28°C. It is advised not to introduce this species to a newly established aquarium as they can be sensitive to fluctuations in water chemistry.
Behaviour
The Asian Glass Catfish is generally peaceful but may prey on smaller fish. They do not compete well with larger or more boisterous species. They are known to be gregarious and tend to form schools; hence, it is recommended to keep a group of four or more specimens in the aquarium. Compatible tankmates include peaceful cyprinids, loaches, and other catfish species.
Feeding and Diet
In captivity, the diet of the K. Bicirrhis should consist of a variety of foods such as sinking dried foods, live and frozen bloodworms, Tubifex, and occasional small earthworms. While they are primarily predators in the wild, there is no need to feed them live prey in captivity.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
There is no recorded information available about the reproduction of the K. Bicirrhis. Adult males of this species are expected to appear slimmer compared to females, indicating a potential sexual dimorphism.
Habitat and Distribution
The Asian Glass Catfish is native to Southeast Asia, with its type locality listed as Java, Indonesia. They are found in major river systems across countries like Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, as well as in the Greater Sunda Islands of Sumatra, Borneo, and Java. They inhabit fast-flowing waters and are commonly observed in lowland floodplains and sometimes in higher altitude habitats within their range.