Can Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) Live Together?

🟡Possible with Caution

Keeping Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together is possible but requires caution due to differing aggression levels. Provide a spacious tank of at least 816 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.


At a Glance

Glass Catfish

Kryptopterus vitreolus

Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)

Datnioides microlepis

🐠Family Group
Glass Catfish
Catfish
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Oddballs
Temperament
Glass Catfish
Peaceful (1/10)
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Semi-Aggressive (6/10)
Temperature
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
24–28°C
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
24–28°C
pH Range
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
6–7
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
6.5–7.5
Hardness (dGH)
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
1–10
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
5–15
Water Type
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Freshwater Only
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Freshwater Only
Flow Preference
✓ Compatible
Glass Catfish
Moderate
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Moderate
Min Tank Volume
Combined: 816 L
Glass Catfish
110 L
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
680 L
Swimming Level
Shared: 1 zone
Glass Catfish
Middle
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
MiddleBottom
🏷️Behavior Tags
Glass Catfish
Shy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)Fry Predator
Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish)
Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish)Shrimp EaterFry PredatorAggressive to same species/look-alikesShy / Slow Moving (Easily Stressed)

Behaviour & Temperament

Glass Catfish is a peaceful species (1/10), while Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) may occasionally assert dominance over Glass Catfish.

Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) both frequent the Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: A larger aquarium with ample hiding spots can help diffuse aggression and give the less dominant fish space to retreat.

Water Parameters

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

Tank Setup

To house Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 816 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Find the right tank equipment

Browse tanks, décor, and equipment suited for this setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) live together?

They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 816 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.

What size tank do Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) need?

A minimum of 816 litres (tank length at least 180 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.

What water temperature is best for Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) together?

Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.

Are Glass Catfish or Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) aggressive?

Glass Catfish is peaceful (1/10) and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) is moderately assertive (6/10). The gap in aggression levels means the calmer fish may experience stress from the more assertive one.

What pH do Glass Catfish and Indonesian Datnoid (Tiger Fish) need?

Both species overlap in the 6.5–7 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.


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