Can Glass Catfish and Scat (Brackish) Live Together?

Glass Catfish is a peaceful species (1/10), while Scat (Brackish) is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This modest difference means Scat (Brackish) may occasionally assert dominance over Glass Catfish.

Glass Catfish and Scat (Brackish) 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.

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Hyperactive swimmers can stress shy, slow-moving species through constant motion. Aggressive eaters may outcompete shy fish for food, leading to malnutrition.

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.

The pH requirements of Glass Catfish (6–7) and Scat (Brackish) (7.5–8.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

Hardness requirements are incompatible: Glass Catfish needs 1–10 dGH while Scat (Brackish) requires 12–30 dGH.

Crucially, these species require different water types — one needs freshwater while the other requires brackish conditions. This is a hard barrier to keeping them together. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Glass Catfish and Scat (Brackish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 540 litres with a minimum length of 150 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Established Algae (Otocinclus). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Note a potential conflict in setup requirements: Scat (Brackish) is a plant destroyer, which conflicts with Glass Catfish's requirement for live plants. Compromise where possible or prioritise the more critical need.

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

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Scat (Brackish) is an aggressive eater that may prevent Glass Catfish from getting enough food.

Because Scat (Brackish) is a fast, competitive feeder, consider using sinking pellets or feeding at opposite ends of the setup to ensure Glass Catfish receives an adequate share.