Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

They are peaceful, slightly timid fish that rely entirely on the safety of the school. If kept alone or in too small a group, they will become stressed, pale, and prone to disease. When kept properly, they are active, fascinating fish to observe.

Diet

Carnivore

They are micro-predators by nature, feeding on small insects, worms, and crustaceans. In the aquarium, they readily accept crushed high-quality flakes and micro-pellets. Their diet should be supplemented regularly with small live or frozen foods like daphnia, baby brine shrimp, and bloodworms.

Sex ratio

School

Females are generally slightly larger and noticeably plumper when carrying eggs, while males may show slightly more intense coloration. They must be kept in a school of at least six individuals, preferably more. A larger group reduces stress and brings out their best schooling behavior.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Being highly active, they benefit from being fed small amounts two times a day. This ensures the entire school receives adequate nutrition and prevents aggressive competition. Overfeeding should be avoided to maintain optimal water quality.

Bioload

The Elongate glass-perchlet produces a moderate bioload typical of small, active schooling fish. While individually they produce little waste, they must be kept in groups, which cumulatively adds to the bioload. Good filtration and standard regular water changes are required.

Flow

Strong

Chanda nama prefers a moderate to brisk water flow, resembling their natural riverine habitats in South Asia. Good circulation is necessary to ensure high dissolved oxygen levels, which keeps them energetic. Utilizing a powerhead or strong filter outflow is recommended.

Jump risk

No

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are egg-scatterers that provide no parental care to their eggs or fry. Breeding requires a separate spawning tank conditioned with fine-leaved plants or spawning mops where the eggs can be deposited. The adults must be removed immediately after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Compatibility & tankmates

Peaceful

They are peaceful, schooling community fish that do well with other similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include small rasboras, peaceful tetras, and small bottom-dwellers like Corydoras. Large or aggressive fish should be avoided as they will easily prey upon or terrorize them.

Tank level

Middle

These glass-perchlets primarily occupy the middle and upper levels of the water column. They are constantly swimming in the open spaces but appreciate the presence of tall plants to retreat into if frightened. Sufficient swimming room is crucial for their well-being.