The Indian Glassfish is a fascinating schooling fish famous for its completely transparent body, allowing you to see its skeletal structure and internal organs. Originally from South Asia, they are highly adaptable but thrive best in hard, alkaline freshwater or low-end brackish setups. They are timid and must be kept in groups. Note: Artificially injected 'Painted Glassfish' suffer severely reduced immune systems and lifespans; supporting the natural, clear form is strongly recommended.
Indian Glassfish At a Glance
Indian Glassfish Tank Requirements
Will Indian Glassfish fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Indian Glassfish needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Indian Glassfish against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Indian Glassfish Water Parameters
Indian Glassfish Temperament & Compatibility
Indian Glassfish Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The healthy, natural, un-dyed form of the Indian Glassfish. They feature a subtle yellow-green iridescence when healthy. Very peaceful but can be easily outcompeted for food by aggressive tank mates.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Clear, Natural Glassfish, Wild Type
Indian Glassfish Care Guide Summary
The Indian Glassfish, scientifically known as Parambassis ranga, belongs to the Oddballs family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 8 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Indian Glassfish requires a brackish tolerant aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 20°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 7–8.5 and a general hardness of 7–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Indian Glassfish is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Indian Glassfish is typically available in one standard form.
Indian Glassfish Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Indian Glassfish, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Indian Glassfish Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Indian Glassfish is a schooling species that feels most secure in a sizeable group, where natural shoaling behaviour reduces stress and brings out their best colours. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Indian Glassfish Is Actually For
Indian Glassfish is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide a keeper who can commit to a proper group of at least 6. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially plants.
The most common mistake is buying Indian Glassfish for looks first and only later discovering how its adult size, behavior, or bioload changes the whole tank plan. Another frequent problem is underestimating its social needs. A token pair or trio often behaves very differently from a real group.
Indian Glassfish Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Indian Glassfish.
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
Show 17 more tank sizes
Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Glassfish
How big does Indian Glassfish get?
Indian Glassfish (Parambassis ranga) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 8 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Indian Glassfish need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm are recommended for Indian Glassfish. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Indian Glassfish need?
Indian Glassfish thrives in brackish tolerant conditions with a temperature range of 20–30°C, a pH between 7 and 8.5, and a general hardness of 7–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Indian Glassfish peaceful or aggressive?
Indian Glassfish is classified as peaceful with an aggression score of 2 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
How many Indian Glassfish should be kept together?
Indian Glassfish is a schooling species and should be kept in groups of at least 6. Larger groups help distribute aggression and encourage natural schooling behaviour.
Does Indian Glassfish have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Indian Glassfish benefits from plants - densely covered in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 6, 2026
- Last updated
- May 6, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Top Tank Mates for Indian Glassfish
These fish are strong compatibility matches for Indian Glassfish based on water preferences, temperament, adult size, and tank behavior.
Spotted Hillstream Loach
Gastromyzon punctulatus
Ideal Tank MatesTrapdoor Snail
Cipangopaludina chinensis
Ideal Tank MatesWhite Cheeked Goby
Rhinogobius duospilus
Ideal Tank MatesTandanus Catfish
Tandanus tandanus
Ideal Tank MatesPetricola Catfish
Synodontis petricola
Ideal Tank MatesGolden Bristlenose Pleco
Ancistrus sp. L144
Ideal Tank MatesPlants That Suit Indian Glassfish
These plants pair well with Indian Glassfish based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Amazon Sword
Echinodorus amazonicus
Anacharis
Egeria densa
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Baby Tears
Lindernia rotundifolia
Balansae
Cryptocoryne crispatula
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