African glass catfish (Pareutropius debauwi) — 4cm

Overview

Freshwater fish UK aquarists seeking an unusual, peaceful catfish will find Pareutropius debauwi a fascinating addition to calm community aquariums. Commonly known as the African glass catfish or Debauwi catfish, this slender species originates from the Congo River basin in Central Africa. Available for sale UK in sizes from 4-7cm, the species reaches approximately 8cm at maturity, making it suitable for medium-sized aquariums. The semi-transparent body, active midwater swimming behavior, and shoaling nature distinguish this catfish from typical bottom-dwelling species. Moderate care requirements suit aquarists with some experience maintaining peaceful African community fish, though the species' slightly delicate nature demands stable water quality and calm tankmates.

Appearance

Pareutropius debauwi features a streamlined, elongated body with semi-transparent flesh that reveals the internal skeleton and swim bladder, creating a distinctive "glass" appearance. Body coloration is pale silver-grey with a subtle greenish or pinkish sheen under certain lighting. A dark horizontal stripe runs from the snout through the eye and along the lateral line toward the caudal peduncle. The head is small and pointed, with large eyes positioned forward. Long barbels extend from the mouth, constantly probing the environment during swimming. All fins are translucent and delicate in appearance. The forked caudal fin allows rapid, graceful swimming. Unlike most catfish, this species spends the majority of time in midwater zones rather than on the substrate, creating a unique profile in the aquarium.

Natural Habitat

This species inhabits slow-moving rivers, tributaries, and backwaters throughout the Congo River basin in Central Africa. Natural habitats feature tannin-stained water, submerged wood, overhanging vegetation, and sandy or muddy substrates. Water conditions are typically warm, soft, slightly acidic, and moderately turbid. The species forms loose shoals that patrol midwater zones, feeding on small invertebrates, insect larvae, zooplankton, and organic particles. Dense riparian vegetation and floating plants provide shade and security from aerial predators. Seasonal flooding disperses populations into flooded forests and grasslands, while the dry season concentrates fish in deeper river channels.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum 110-litre aquarium with dimensions emphasizing length over height provides suitable space for a shoal of 6-8 African glass catfish. Use fine sand or smooth gravel substrate and densely plant the tank with species such as Vallisneria, Java fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. Include driftwood, dried leaves, and floating plants to create subdued lighting and visual security. The species appreciates tannin-stained water achieved through Indian almond leaves, alder cones, or blackwater extracts, though this is optional. Filtration should be efficient but gentle—avoid strong currents that stress the fish or make feeding difficult. Ensure the tank has a secure lid, as the species may jump when startled. Maintain excellent water quality, as Pareutropius debauwi is sensitive to poor conditions and deteriorating parameters.

Water Parameters

Maintain temperatures between 22-28°C, with 24-26°C representing optimal conditions. The species tolerates slight variations but requires stability. pH should remain between 6.0-7.5, with slightly acidic to neutral values (6.5-7.0) ideal. Water hardness can range from soft to moderately hard, though soft to moderate hardness better replicates natural Congo basin conditions. Ammonia and nitrite must be undetectable, while nitrates should stay below 30 ppm through efficient biological filtration and weekly water changes of 25-30%. The species is sensitive to abrupt parameter changes and poor water quality, responding with stress coloration, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Maintain consistency and perform gradual adjustments when necessary.

Feeding

Pareutropius debauwi is an omnivore with a preference for small, protein-rich foods. Offer high-quality micro-pellets or crushed flakes as the dietary foundation, supplemented with small frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, baby brine shrimp, and finely chopped bloodworms. Live foods are relished and help condition the fish for optimal health. Feed small portions 1-2 times daily, ensuring food remains suspended in the water column or sinks slowly, as the species feeds primarily in midwater rather than from the substrate. In community tanks, monitor feeding closely to ensure the glass catfish receive adequate food, as more aggressive or faster tankmates may outcompete them. A varied diet supports health, coloration, and activity levels.

Behaviour

African glass catfish are peaceful, social fish that form loose shoals constantly moving through midwater zones. The species swims gracefully with subtle fin movements, often orienting in the same direction as shoal mates. Activity levels remain moderate throughout the day, with increased feeding activity during dawn, dusk, and evening hours. The fish are shy initially, especially in brightly lit or high-traffic aquariums, but become more confident once established in a secure, well-planted tank with adequate shoal size. Barbels constantly probe the water, detecting chemical cues from food and environmental features. The species displays no aggression toward tankmates and is entirely compatible with other peaceful community fish. Stress manifests as faded coloration, hiding, or erratic swimming, signaling a need to reassess water quality or tankmate selection.

Tank Mates

Pareutropius debauwi thrives alongside small, peaceful community fish that share similar water requirements. Suitable companions include small tetras (Congo, emperor, red-eye), African dwarf cichlids (Pelvicachromis, Nanochromis), Corydoras catfish, peaceful barbs, and other calm midwater species. Avoid large or aggressive fish, boisterous feeders, fin-nippers, or predatory species that may harass or consume the delicate catfish. Very active or competitive tankmates may intimidate the glass catfish during feeding, so select companions carefully. In ideal conditions with peaceful tankmates, the species displays its most natural, confident behavior and remains visible throughout the day.

Breeding

Breeding Pareutropius debauwi in home aquariums is uncommon and rarely documented. Successful spawning likely requires a well-conditioned shoal, soft and slightly acidic water, excellent water quality, and dense plant cover or spawning media for egg deposition. If spawning occurs, eggs are small and adhesive, attaching to plants or substrate. Fry are tiny and require microscopic foods such as infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to newly hatched brine shrimp within a week. Raising fry demands exceptional water quality and careful attention to feeding. Most specimens in the trade are wild-caught, with captive breeding remaining rare among hobbyists.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co supplies healthy, active African glass catfish carefully selected for strong swimming behavior and good body condition. We ensure all specimens are feeding confidently on prepared foods and displaying normal shoaling behavior before dispatch. Our expert team provides detailed care guidance covering the importance of group housing, water parameters, tank setup, and suitable tankmate selection. With reliable UK delivery using specialist livestock couriers, your fish arrive safely in insulated packaging with oxygen. We support responsible fishkeeping and offer ongoing advice to help you succeed with this unique and peaceful species. Choose Tropical Fish Co for rare, quality livestock and expert customer support.