Parambanssis pulcinella 6,5 - 7, (Parambassis pulcinella) — 6,5-7,5cm

Overview

The exotic fish for sale UK aquarist seeking a rare gem will appreciate Parambassis pulcinella, commonly known as the humphead glassfish, a rare, elegant Southeast Asian species that shines in peaceful, planted aquariums with soft water and careful husbandry. Endemic to Myanmar's Ataran River drainage, this beautiful glassfish displays subtle colouration, a distinctive head profile, and graceful swimming behaviour that makes it a standout addition to specialist community tanks. Available for sale UK hobbyists should note that this species requires difficult-level care with exacting water quality standards and a specialized diet, making it best suited to experienced aquarists. At 6.5-7.5cm, these specimens are approaching adult size and ready for a carefully maintained aquarium.

Appearance and Colouration

Parambassis pulcinella displays a translucent body with a subtle greenish or yellowish tint, through which the skeleton and internal organs are partially visible. The species is named for its distinctive hump-headed profile, particularly pronounced in mature males. The dorsal and anal fins are elongated and elegant, with subtle iridescent reflections under good lighting. The eyes are proportionally large and prominent. At 6.5-7.5cm, specimens are approaching full adult size of around 7cm and display well-developed finnage. Colouration intensifies when the fish is in excellent condition, with males showing more pronounced humps and brighter tones during spawning periods.

Natural Habitat

Endemic to the Ataran River drainage in Myanmar, Parambassis pulcinella inhabits clear, slow-moving rivers, streams, and pools with soft, slightly acidic water and abundant vegetation. These environments feature shaded areas with overhanging vegetation, submerged wood, and rocky substrates. Water conditions are stable and clean, with moderate to low flow and excellent oxygenation. In the wild, humphead glassfish form small schools and feed on tiny aquatic invertebrates, insects, and zooplankton. Recreating these pristine, natural conditions is essential for long-term success with this delicate species.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a minimum of 100 litres with a mature, heavily planted layout including Java moss, Java fern, Anubias, and floating plants to create shaded areas and visual security. Use a fine sand or smooth gravel substrate and furnish the aquarium with driftwood and smooth rocks. Install efficient but gentle filtration to maintain pristine water quality without creating strong currents. Subdued lighting replicates natural shaded habitats and reduces stress. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water with stable parameters and perform frequent small partial water changes to ensure excellent conditions. Avoid overcrowding and provide a calm, peaceful environment.

Diet and Feeding

Parambassis pulcinella is a carnivore that requires a varied meaty diet of small live and frozen foods. Offer bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and quality micro-pellets or granules designed for carnivorous fish. Live foods are strongly preferred, though well-conditioned individuals may accept high-quality frozen alternatives. Feed small portions multiple times daily to replicate natural grazing behaviour. Remove uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality. This species has a small mouth and requires appropriately sized foods. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes vibrant colouration, healthy growth, and breeding condition.

Behaviour and Temperament

Humphead glassfish are peaceful, shy, and social, displaying their best behaviour when kept in a calm shoal of at least five individuals. They occupy the mid to upper water levels, swimming gracefully among plants and décor. This species is timid and easily stressed by aggressive or boisterous tankmates, and may become withdrawn or refuse food if conditions are unsuitable. During spawning periods, males may display subtle territorial behaviour and intensified colouration. Provide plenty of plant cover and visual barriers to help the fish feel secure. In a well-maintained, peaceful aquarium, they become more confident and display natural schooling behaviour.

Suitable Tank Mates

Compatible with small peaceful fish of similar size, including calm rasboras, small non-nippy tetras, peaceful barbs, and small loaches. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, very boisterous species, and fish small enough to be considered prey. Tankmates should be chosen for their gentle nature and compatibility with soft, slightly acidic water. A quiet, heavily planted community tank with similarly sized, non-aggressive species is ideal. Overly active or competitive fish will outcompete humphead glassfish at feeding time and cause stress, so tankmate selection is critical.

Breeding

Breeding is uncommon in home aquaria. When it occurs, it likely requires a well-conditioned group, excellent water quality, and soft, slightly acidic water with fine-leaved plants or spawning media for egg deposition. Males may display subtle courtship behaviour and intensified colouration. Eggs are typically scattered among plants and require removal to a separate rearing tank to prevent predation. Fry are tiny and require microscopic live foods such as infusoria before graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp. Breeding success demands pristine water quality, careful conditioning, and dedicated attention. Most aquarists keep this species for display rather than reproduction.

Special Considerations

Best kept in a mature, heavily planted aquarium with subdued lighting, gentle filtration, and stable, clean water. This species is sensitive to poor water quality, rapid parameter changes, and stress from aggressive tankmates. Avoid housing with boisterous or competitive fish, as humphead glassfish are easily outcompeted at feeding time and may become withdrawn. Target feeding may be necessary to ensure all individuals receive adequate nutrition. This species is not recommended for beginners and requires experienced aquarists committed to providing exacting care and careful husbandry. The difficult care level reflects the need for pristine conditions and specialized attention.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK supplier of rare, healthy glassfish including Parambassis pulcinella. Each fish is carefully selected for excellent condition, active behaviour, and robust health. Our livestock is quarantined and health-checked before dispatch, ensuring you receive only the finest specimens. We provide expert care advice, detailed species information, and ongoing support to help you succeed with specialist fish. With fast, secure delivery across the UK and a commitment to sustainable, responsible fishkeeping practices, Tropical Fish Co is your trusted partner for premium tropical fish and rare aquatic livestock.