Introduction

The Giant glassfish (Parambassis gulliveri) is a captivating species known for its translucent body and peaceful demeanor, making it a unique addition to large home aquariums. Native to South Asia and parts of Australia, this fish appeals to aquarists seeking an unusual yet serene inhabitant for their tanks. While their care requires attention to specific environmental conditions, their striking appearance and tranquil nature make the effort worthwhile.

Care and Environment

Providing optimal care for the Giant glassfish involves replicating its natural habitat and meeting its specific needs.

What is the minimum tank size required for a Giant glassfish?

Due to their potential size of up to 28 cm, a minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended for a single specimen. For a group, a larger tank of at least 300 liters is ideal to accommodate their active swimming behavior.

What water parameters are suitable for Giant glassfish?

Maintain a water temperature between 23°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0. Water hardness should be between 4 to 26°N (71.43 - 464.29 ppm). Consistent water quality is crucial, so regular monitoring and maintenance are essential.

How should the tank be set up for Giant glassfish?

Equip the tank with a robust filtration system to handle their high waste production and ensure strong water movement, mimicking their natural river habitats. Moderate to high lighting levels are suitable, especially if live plants are included. Decorate with rocks, driftwood, and plants to provide hiding spots and reduce stress.

What should be included in the diet of Giant glassfish?

As carnivores, they thrive on a varied diet of high-protein foods. Offer quality flakes or pellets with high protein content, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped shellfish. Avoid feeding live feeder fish to prevent disease transmission.

Are there any specific challenges in keeping Giant glassfish?

They are sensitive to water quality and require a well-maintained environment. Additionally, their large size and active nature necessitate ample space, and they should be kept in groups to promote natural behavior.

Origin and Habitat

The Giant glassfish is native to northern Australia and south-central New Guinea. In the wild, they inhabit large, turbid rivers with moderate to strong currents. These environments are typically characterized by high turbidity and are rich in small fishes and crustaceans, which constitute their natural diet. Understanding their natural habitat helps in creating a suitable environment in captivity.

Temperament and Compatibility

Giant glassfish are peaceful and prefer to be kept in small groups. They are compatible with other similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Avoid housing them with smaller fish that could be seen as prey or with aggressive species that might harass them. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful, medium to large-sized fish that thrive in similar water conditions.

Do Giant glassfish need to be kept in groups?

Yes, they are social fish and should be kept in groups to prevent stress and promote natural behaviors.

What types of tank mates are suitable for Giant glassfish?

Compatible tank mates include other peaceful, similarly sized fish that share their environmental requirements. Avoid aggressive or much smaller species.

Interesting Facts

The Giant glassfish is the largest member of the Ambassidae family, reaching lengths up to 28 cm. Their translucent bodies allow for a fascinating view of their internal organs, a trait that has intrigued aquarists and researchers alike. In the wild, they primarily feed on small fishes and crustaceans, showcasing their role as predators in their natural ecosystem.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• aqua-fish.net
• FishBase
• fishkeepingsecrets.com