Glass Catfish and Similar Species
Kryptopterus vitreolus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Glass Catfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Indian Glassy Fish
Parambassis ranga
Key differences: While also transparent, Parambassis ranga belongs to a different family (Ambassidae) and possesses a distinct, larger dorsal fin and often exhibits a yellowish or greenish tint, sometimes with black spots. It also has scales, unlike Kryptopterus vitreolus.
Other Kryptopterus species
Kryptopterus bicirrhis (formerly considered the same species)
Key differences: Kryptopterus bicirrhis (the 'true' Glass Catfish, now often referred to as the 'Giant Glass Catfish') is significantly larger (up to 15 cm) and less transparent, often having a more milky or opaque appearance. K. vitreolus is smaller (up to 6.5 cm) and much more transparent. Taxonomic revisions in 2013 formally separated K. vitreolus as a distinct species.
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