Giant glassfish - Parambassis gulliveri

Scientific name: Parambassis gulliveri

Common name: Giant glassfish

Family: Ambassidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 21 - 28 cm (8.27 - 11.02 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7 - 8

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 26°N (71.43 - 464.29ppm)

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Recommended temperature range: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Oceania

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

Parambassis gulliveri originates from northern Australia and New Guinea. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and billabongs. This species is primarily freshwater but may also occur in slightly brackish environments.

General Care

Due to their large adult size, Giant glassfish require spacious aquariums. A tank length of at least 150 cm (5 feet) is recommended. They are schooling fish and should be kept in small groups, which increases the need for swimming space.

Strong filtration and good oxygenation are important, as these fish are active swimmers. Moderate lighting is suitable, and plants or wood can be added for decoration. They spend most of their time in the middle water column.

This species should not be kept with small fish, as they are predatory and may consume tank mates that fit into their mouth.

Food and Feeding

Parambassis gulliveri is a carnivorous species that feeds on small fish and crustaceans in the wild. In the aquarium, they should be offered a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, mussels, bloodworms, and frozen carnivore preparations.

High-quality pellets with high protein content may also be accepted. Feeding live feeder fish is not recommended due to the risk of introducing disease. Feeding once daily is usually sufficient.

Temperament and Compatibility

Giant glassfish are peaceful toward similarly sized fish but are predatory. Small tank mates will be eaten. Suitable companions include larger peaceful fish that are too large to be swallowed.

They should be kept in groups to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

Sexing

Sexing Parambassis gulliveri is extremely difficult, as there are no obvious external differences between males and females.

Breeding

Breeding Parambassis gulliveri in aquariums is rarely reported. They are believed to be egg scatterers in the wild. Little information is available regarding captive breeding.

Lifespan

With proper care, Giant glassfish typically live between 7 and 8 years. Large aquariums and good water quality contribute to longevity.

Short Description

Parambassis gulliveri is a large transparent-bodied schooling fish from northern Australia and New Guinea. This peaceful but predatory species requires a spacious aquarium and is best kept with similarly sized fish.