Glass barb knife

The glass knife barb, scientific name Parachela oxygastroides, belongs to the family Cyprinidae (Cyprinidae). Native to Southeast Asia, found in Indochina, Thailand, the islands of Borneo and Java. Inhabits numerous rivers, lakes and swamps. In the rainy season, it swims in flooded areas of tropical forests, as well as in agricultural land (rice fields).

Description

Adults reach a length of about 20 cm. The word “glassy” in the name of the species indicates the peculiarity of color. Young fish have translucent body covers, through which the skeleton and internal organs are clearly visible. With age, the color changes and becomes a gray solid color with a blue sheen and a golden back.

Behavior and Compatibility

Peaceful, prefer to be in the community of relatives and other fish of comparable size, able to live in similar conditions.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 300 liters.
• Temperature – 22-26°C
• Value pH — 6.3–7.5
• Water hardness – 5–15 dGH
• Substrate type – any
• Lighting – subdued or moderate
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement – light or moderate
• The size of the fish is up to 20 cm.
• Food – any variety of food
• Temperament – peaceful
• Content alone, in pairs or in a group

Maintenance and care

It does not impose special requirements on its content. Successfully adapts to various conditions. However, the most comfortable environment is considered to be soft slightly acidic or water. It feeds on anything that can fit in its mouth. A good choice would be dry food in the form of flakes and granules.

The design of the aquarium is also not essential. The presence of shelters from thickets of plants and snags is welcome.