Highfin glassy perchlet (Parambassis altipinnis) — 3,0-4,0cm

Overview

The freshwater aquarium fish enthusiast seeking a tiny, shimmering gem will appreciate Parambassis altipinnis, commonly known as the highfin glassy perchlet, a species with a striking high dorsal fin that makes it ideal for peaceful planted aquariums. Endemic to freshwaters of West Papua, Indonesia, this diminutive glassfish displays translucent beauty, elegant finnage, and peaceful behaviour that captivates dedicated aquarists. Available for sale UK hobbyists should note that this species requires moderate-level care with excellent water quality, specialized diet, and calm tankmates. At 3-4cm, these specimens are approaching full adult size of approximately 3.5cm, remaining perfectly sized for nano and small community aquariums.

Appearance and Colouration

Parambassis altipinnis displays a translucent body with a subtle greenish or yellowish tint, through which the skeleton and internal organs are partially visible. The species is distinguished by its dramatically elongated dorsal fin, particularly pronounced in males, which rises high above the body and creates an elegant silhouette. The fins are translucent with subtle iridescent reflections under good lighting. The eyes are proportionally large and prominent. At 3-4cm, specimens are nearing full adult size and display well-developed, striking finnage. Colouration intensifies when the fish is in excellent condition, with healthy individuals showing subtle rainbow iridescence.

Natural Habitat

Endemic to freshwater systems in West Papua, Indonesia, Parambassis altipinnis inhabits clear, slow-moving streams, pools, and swamps with soft, slightly acidic water and abundant vegetation. These environments feature shaded areas with overhanging vegetation, submerged wood, and complex structure. Water conditions are stable and clean with low to moderate flow and excellent oxygenation. In the wild, highfin glassy perchlets form small schools and feed on tiny aquatic invertebrates, insects, and zooplankton. Recreating these pristine, natural conditions with planted aquascapes and stable water chemistry is essential for success.

Aquarium Setup

Provide a minimum of 75 litres with a mature, well-planted layout including Java moss, Java fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, 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 excellent 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 regular small partial water changes. Avoid overcrowding and provide a calm, peaceful environment with minimal disturbance.

Diet and Feeding

Parambassis altipinnis is a carnivore that requires a varied diet of small live and frozen foods. Offer daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, and finely chopped bloodworms, supplemented with quality micro pellets or flakes if accepted. Live foods are strongly preferred and essential for conditioning. 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 iridescence, healthy growth, and breeding condition.

Behaviour and Temperament

Highfin glassy perchlets are peaceful, shy, and social, displaying their best behaviour when kept in a small school of at least six individuals. They occupy the mid to upper water levels, swimming gracefully among plants with their elegant dorsal fins fully extended. This species is timid and easily stressed by aggressive or boisterous tankmates, and may become withdrawn or refuse food if conditions are unsuitable. In a well-maintained, peaceful aquarium with plenty of plant cover, they become more confident and display natural schooling behaviour. Males may display subtle competitive behaviour over territories or mates, but serious aggression is rare.

Suitable Tank Mates

Compatible with other small peaceful fish of similar size, including small rasboras, microrasboras, small tetras such as ember tetras, and small peaceful bottom dwellers such as pygmy corydoras. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, very boisterous tankmates, and fish large enough to eat them. Tankmates should be chosen for their gentle nature and compatibility with soft, slightly acidic water. A quiet, heavily planted nano or small community tank with similarly sized, non-aggressive species is ideal. Overly active or competitive fish will cause stress and outcompete at feeding time.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is uncommon. Like other glass perches, they are likely egg scatterers that benefit from a well-conditioned group, soft clean water, fine-leaved plants or spawning mops, and minimal disturbance. Males may display subtle courtship behaviour and intensified finnage displays. 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 planted, well-filtered aquarium with subdued lighting and calm tankmates. This species is small and somewhat delicate, requiring excellent water quality and a secure lid to prevent jumping or escape. Avoid housing with aggressive, boisterous, or highly competitive fish, as highfin glassy perchlets are easily stressed and outcompeted at feeding time. Target feeding may be necessary to ensure all individuals receive adequate nutrition. Moderate care level indicates experience with small, shy, specialized feeders is beneficial for long-term success. Maintain stable parameters and avoid rapid changes.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a trusted UK supplier of rare, healthy glassfish including Parambassis altipinnis highfin glassy perchlets. Each fish is carefully selected for excellent condition, striking finnage, 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 reliable partner for premium tropical fish and aquatic livestock.