Formerly this species of glass perch was the most common found in the trade. It has a very wide distribution through Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. However, Parambassis siamensis was most often mis-identified and traded under the name “Chanda wolffii”. P. siamensis is very similar to the Indian species P. ranga. Both are distinguished by only minor details and both become about 6 cm long.
These glass perches are wonderful aquarium fishes and very peaceful. They do not accept dried food items, but can be easily fed with frozen of live food. The fish are undemanding in respect of the water, but the water should be not too soft and — more important — not too acidic. The best pH is between 7.5 and 8.5. It is not recommended to add salt to the water; both species are pure freshwater fish.
It is important not to keep them alone or by pair, but in larger schools. Ten specimens should be the minimum, otherwise the fish will be very shy and anxious. They spawn in fine plant material. The mating rituals are very nice to look at. The fish do not care for eggs or brood. It is pretty difficult to raise the extremely tiny brood that accepts only live copepod nauplia for food. The best nauplia for raising glass perches are those from members of the genus Diaptomus.
For our customers: the fish have code 441304 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
