20 Best Glass Catfish Tank Mates

This comprehensive guide explores a variety of fish species suitable to share an aquarium with the unique and fascinating glass catfish, ensuring a harmonious and visually stunning underwater environment.

by Fabian

Updated: May 22, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Neon Tetra

Neon Tetras are small, colorful fish originating from the Amazon River Basin, known for their bright neon blue and red colors. They are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant appearance and peaceful nature.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, feed on a variety of food, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)

Neon Tetras are shoaling fish and need to be kept in groups of at least six to thrive. Due to their peaceful nature, they make excellent tank mates for Glass Catfish, as they share similar requirements and enjoy swimming in different water levels.

Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetras are striking, small freshwater fish native to South America, particularly the Orinoco and Negro River basins. They boast vibrant red and blue colors running the length of their bodies, making them a popular choice for home aquariums.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they require a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)

Like Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras are shoaling fish that thrive in groups of at least six. They get along well with Glass Catfish as they both appreciate similar water conditions and have calm dispositions. Keeping them together encourages natural behaviors and creates a visually stunning aquarium, as these fish enjoy occupying various levels in the tank.

Harlequin Rasbora

Harlequin Rasboras are small, brightly colored fish native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Singapore, and Sumatra. They are known for their distinctive black triangular patch near the tail and their vibrant orange-red bodies.

• Compatibility: 4.5/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they enjoy a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Harlequin Rasboras are social fish best kept in groups of six or more. They share a non-aggressive temperament with the Glass Catfish, making them ideal tank mates. Both species appreciate well-planted aquariums with similar water conditions.

They typically swim in the upper and middle areas of the tank, complementing the Glass Catfish’s preference for the lower levels. Their combined colors and interactions create a dynamic, engaging aquatic environment.

Cherry Barb

Cherry Barbs are small, colorful fish native to Sri Lanka, known for their vibrant red coloration, which is especially prominent in males. They are a popular choice in community aquariums due to their peaceful nature and adaptability.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, they require a mixed diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Like Glass Catfish, Cherry Barbs appreciate a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and plenty of swimming space. They are schooling fish, best kept in groups of at least six individuals.

Their non-aggressive, easy-going nature makes them great tank mates for Glass Catfish, as they both have similar water requirements and enjoy the same aquatic setup. Cherry Barbs tend to swim in the middle and upper regions of the tank, adding visual interest and balance to the underwater display.

Celestial Pearl Danio

Celestial Pearl Danios, originally discovered in Myanmar, are small, brilliantly colored fish with a captivating galaxy-like pattern of spots on their sides. They have gained immense popularity in the hobby due to their stunning appearance and peaceful temperament.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoy a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 0.8-1 inch (2-2.5 cm)

Celestial Pearl Danios are schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least six. Their peaceful demeanor makes them a fantastic match for Glass Catfish tank mates. Both species appreciate a well-planted aquarium with adequate hiding spots, clean water, and gentle water flow.

Celestial Pearl Danios primarily swim in the middle area of the tank, complementing the Glass Catfish’s preference for the bottom levels. When combined, these two species create a visually captivating aquatic environment.

Ember Tetra

Ember Tetras are small, vibrant freshwater fish native to Brazil, especially the Araguaia River Basin. Their fiery orange-red coloration and peaceful demeanor make them a popular addition to community tanks.

• Compatibility: 4.5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a mixed diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 0.8-1 inch (2-2.5 cm)

Ember Tetras thrive in schools of six or more and happily coexist with Glass Catfish. Both species share similar water requirements and enjoy well-planted aquariums, making them excellent tank mates.

Ember Tetras occupy the mid-water region, while Glass Catfish prefer the lower levels, creating a balanced and visually appealing display. Their combined activity and striking colors greatly enhance the tank’s overall aesthetic and promote a harmonious, thriving environment.

Honey Gourami

Honey Gouramis, native to South and Southeast Asia, are small, peaceful fish with a stunning golden-yellow color, often featuring an orange stripe along their bodies. They are a favored choice for a peaceful community tank, especially for beginner aquarists.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, prefer a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Honey Gouramis are compatible with non-aggressive tank mates like Glass Catfish, as they share similar water parameters and tank setup requirements. Both species appreciate well-planted tanks with hiding spots and a gentle water flow.

While Glass Catfish tend to swim at the lower levels of the tank, Honey Gouramis prefer to explore all areas of the aquarium, creating visual variety and harmony for an engaging, vibrant display.

Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras Catfish are small, bottom-dwelling fish found in South America’s freshwater habitats, widely admired for their distinctive armored appearance and social nature. They are a popular choice for community tanks due to their peaceful disposition.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, eat sinking pellets and enjoy scavenging for leftover food on the substrate.
• Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm), depending on species

Corydoras Catfish are schooling fish, best kept in groups of at least six. They thrive in similar water conditions and tank setups as Glass Catfish and make excellent tank mates because of their peaceful nature.

Both species enjoy exploring the bottom of the tank, which offers a great opportunity to observe their fascinating interactions and create a harmonious underwater environment.

Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetras are small, striking fish originating from the Paraguay River Basin in South America. They feature a striking black and white horizontal stripe along their bodies, giving them a unique and eye-catching appearance.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoy a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)

Like other Tetra species, Black Neon Tetras are schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least six. They have a peaceful nature, making them suitable tank mates for Glass Catfish.

Both species appreciate well-planted tanks with similar water conditions and are compatible in terms of temperament and habitat preferences. Black Neon Tetras typically swim in the mid to upper regions of the tank, creating an attractive visual contrast with the bottom-dwelling Glass Catfish.

Glowlight Tetra

Glowlight Tetras are small, colorful fish native to South America’s Essequibo River Basin. They catch the eye with their vibrant reddish-orange stripe against a silver body, making them a popular choice in community aquariums.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)

Glowlight Tetras are schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. Their peaceful nature and shared water requirements make them suitable tank mates for Glass Catfish. Both species appreciate well-planted tanks with hiding spots and gentle water flow.

Glowlight Tetras usually swim in the mid to upper regions of the tank, providing a visually captivating contrast with the Glass Catfish’s preferred lower levels and adding balance to the aquarium’s overall appearance.

Guppy Fish

Guppy Fish, native to South America and the Caribbean, are small, livebearing fish celebrated for their vivid coloration, diverse patterns, and hardy nature. They are a staple in the aquarium hobby, particularly for beginners.

• Compatibility: 3.5/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, thrive on a diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 0.6-2.4 inches (1.5-6 cm), depending on sex and strain

Guppies can coexist with Glass Catfish under specific conditions. Ensure the tank has ample hiding spots to accommodate both species’ need for shelter. Guppies benefit from a planted tank and appreciate swimming in the upper and middle areas, balancing the Glass Catfish residing in the lower regions.

Compatibility is generally good, but caution should be exercised with larger guppy strains and tiny Glass Catfish. Observing their interactions and intervening if necessary will ensure a harmonious aquatic environment.

Rummy-Nose Tetra

Rummy-Nose Tetras are small, attractive fish native to South America, primarily found in the Amazon River Basin. They are known for their unique red “rummy” noses and the striking black and white patterns on their tails.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20-30 gallons (76-114 liters)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, prefer a balanced diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Rummy-Nose Tetras are schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. Their peaceful demeanor and shared water requirements make them excellent tank mates for Glass Catfish. A well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and a gentle water flow is enjoyed by both species.

Rummy-Nose Tetras typically swim in the middle and upper regions of the tank, providing a dynamic and visually engaging contrast with the bottom-dwelling Glass Catfish, resulting in an appealing and active aquatic environment.

Swordtails

Swordtails are vibrant, livebearing fish native to Central and North America, named for the distinctive elongated “sword” on the tails of the males. Their hardy nature and colorful appearance make them popular in community aquariums.

• Compatibility: 3.5/5
• Tank Size: 15-20 gallons (57-76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, some occasional aggression
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, appreciate a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm), including the “sword”

Swordtails can coexist with Glass Catfish but require careful monitoring due to their potential for occasional aggression. A heavily planted tank with multiple hiding spots will help ensure a harmonious environment.

Swordtails typically swim in the upper and middle areas of the tank, while Glass Catfish inhabit the lower levels. When accommodated properly, these fish can create a dynamic and colorful underwater community. Observing their interactions and managing any aggressive behaviors will maintain a peaceful and thriving aquarium.

Platies

Platies, native to Central and North America, are small, livebearing fish loved for their hardy nature and vibrant colors. Their adaptability and peaceful temperament make them an ideal choice for community aquariums, particularly for beginners.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoy a mixed diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2.5 inches (3.8-6.4 cm)

Platies can comfortably coexist with Glass Catfish in a planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. As both species are livebearers, they may prefer slightly harder water than other fish on this list.

Nonetheless, they share similar water requirements and should not present compatibility issues. Platies generally swim in the middle and upper areas of the tank, while Glass Catfish explore the bottom levels, ensuring a visually engaging and harmonious aquarium environment.

Dwarf Rainbowfish

Dwarf Rainbowfish, found in Australia and New Guinea, are small, colorful fish known for their shimmering iridescence and active nature. Their striking appearance and engaging behavior make them a popular choice in community aquariums.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 15-20 gallons (57-76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, appreciate a balanced diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-3 inches (3.8-7.6 cm), depending on species

Dwarf Rainbowfish can thrive alongside Glass Catfish if provided with a well-planted tank and adequate swimming space. Their peaceful temperament and similar water requirements ensure compatibility between the two species.

While Glass Catfish predominantly swim at the bottom levels of the tank, Dwarf Rainbowfish occupy the middle and upper areas, showcasing their vibrant colors and creating a dynamic and visually appealing aquatic environment.

Zebra Danio

Zebra Danios, native to South Asia, are small, active fish with distinctive horizontal stripes along their bodies, resembling the patterning of a zebra. Their hardiness and energetic nature make them a popular addition to community tanks.

• Compatibility: 3.5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Usually peaceful, may become nippy if kept in small groups
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 2-2.5 inches (5-6.4 cm)

Zebra Danios can be compatible with Glass Catfish, but they require larger shoals of at least six to minimize potential nipping behavior. Both species appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space.

Zebra Danios typically swim in the upper and middle areas of the tank, adding visual diversity and activity to the aquarium while the bottom-dwelling Glass Catfish explore the lower levels. Observing their interactions and intervening if necessary will ensure a harmonious aquatic environment.

Kuhli Loach

Kuhli Loaches, native to Southeast Asia, are small, eel-like fish known for their unique appearance and nocturnal behavior. Their peaceful nature and reclusive tendencies make them an interesting addition to community tanks.

• Compatibility: 4.5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, prefer sinking pellets and scavenging for uneaten food on the substrate.
• Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.6-10 cm)

Kuhli Loaches coexist well with Glass Catfish, as they share similar water parameters and appreciate well-planted tanks with hiding spots. They primarily inhabit the bottom levels of the tank, exploring and scavenging for food while Glass Catfish swim higher up.

Due to their nocturnal nature, Kuhli Loaches are most active during twilight and night hours, providing an intriguing contrast to the Glass Catfish’s daytime activity. Together, they create a harmonious and engaging underwater environment.

Lemon Tetra

Lemon Tetras are small, brightly colored freshwater fish native to South America, particularly the Amazon River Basin. Their vibrant yellow hue and peaceful demeanor make them a popular choice for community aquariums.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10-20 gallons (38-76 liters)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, thrive on a diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Lemon Tetras are schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least six. They share a peaceful temperament and similar water requirements with Glass Catfish, making them excellent tank mates.

Both species appreciate a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and gentle water flow. Lemon Tetras typically swim in the mid to upper regions of the tank, offering a visual complement to the Glass Catfish’s preferred lower levels and creating a harmonious and colorful aquatic environment.

Silver Hatchetfish

Silver Hatchetfish, originating from South America’s Amazon River Basin, are small, unique fish characterized by their distinct hatchet-like body shape. This unusual appearance and peaceful temperament make them an intriguing addition to community tanks.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 15 gallons (57 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefer a diet of live or frozen food such as brine shrimp and daphnia.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Silver Hatchetfish are schooling fish that should be kept in groups of at least six. They comfortably coexist with Glass Catfish, as they share peaceful temperaments and similar water parameters.

Silver Hatchetfish primarily inhabit the upper levels of the tank, providing an engaging visual contrast with the bottom-dwelling Glass Catfish. A well-planted tank with a tight-fitting lid is essential, as Silver Hatchetfish are known to be skilled jumpers. Together, they create a captivating and harmonious aquatic display.

Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus Catfish, native to South America, are small, bottom-dwelling fish known for their effective algae-eating abilities and peaceful disposition. They are a popular addition to community tanks and provide natural algae control.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous, primarily feed on algae; supplement with vegetables and algae wafers.
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (3.8-5 cm)

Otocinclus Catfish are an excellent match for Glass Catfish tank mates, as they share similar water requirements and exhibit non-aggressive behavior. Both species appreciate a well-planted aquarium with hiding spots and gentle water flow.

The Otocinclus Catfish’s effective algae-eating abilities will help maintain a clean tank environment beneficial to all inhabitants, including the Glass Catfish. Their interactions create a fascinating and harmonious underwater community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are numerous options for choosing the perfect tank mates for your Glass Catfish. Selecting the right species ensures a harmonious, visually captivating, and thriving aquatic environment. Do you have experience keeping Glass Catfish with any of these tank mates? Share your thoughts in the comments below.