There are a few different types of fish that could match the description of being transparent with a neon stripe. The most likely candidates are certain species of glassfish and neon tetras. Glassfish get their name from their transparent, glass-like appearance that allows you to see right through their bodies. Many species also have an iridescent neon stripe that runs horizontally along their sides. Neon tetras are small, freshwater fish that are also partly transparent. They have a vibrant neon blue horizontal stripe and bright red tails. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the characteristics of these fascinating transparent fish with neon accents and examine some of the most popular species in the aquarium trade.
Glassfish
Glassfish belong to the family Chandidae and get their name from their unique transparent bodies. They live in marine waters throughout the Indo-Pacific region. There are over 20 recognized species, with some of the most popular including:
| Common Name | Scientific Name |
|---|---|
| Glass catfish | Kryptopterus vitreolus |
| Ghost glassfish | Parambassis ranga |
| Two-spot glassfish | Chanda ranga |
Glassfish have see-through, silvery bodies that lack pigment and reflective guanine crystals that are found in most fish skin and scales. This gives them a crystal clear, glass-like appearance. They also often display an iridescent horizontal neon stripe along the midline. The stripe may be blue, green, or yellow depending on the species.
The transparent bodies of glassfish provide camouflage in their open water habitats among coral reefs. Blending into the background helps them avoid larger predators. The horizontal stripe may also help with schooling behavior and maintaining group coordination.
Interesting Facts About Glassfish
Here are some fascinating facts about these unique fish:
– Their transparent bodies allow you to see their internal organs, skeleton, and processes like digestion and circulation. This helps scientists study these systems.
– Glassfish do not have scales. Instead their skin is made of connective tissue and collagen.
– They have very large eyes compared to body size to help see prey and threats in the open water.
– Glassfish swim upright with their belly facing towards the surface, unlike most fish that swim on their side.
– They are omnivores and eat both tiny plankton and small crustaceans. Some species also eat algae.
– Glassfish spawn by laying buoyant eggs that float up towards the surface. The larvae hatch within a day.
– They are popular aquarium fish but require stable water conditions like specific pH and salinity. Some species prefer brackish water.
– Glassfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other passive community fish. They may eat very small shrimp and fish larvae however.
Neon Tetras
Neon tetras belong to the Characidae family of freshwater fish and come from South America. Their scientific name is Paracheirodon innesi, and they inhabit soft, acidic waters in the Amazon River basin. Neon tetras have a similarly transparent body with a vivid neon blue horizontal stripe that runs from their nose to the base of the adipose fin. Below this stripe, they have an iridescent silver belly. They also have a bright red caudal and anal fin.
Neon Tetra Facts
– Neon tetras grow to about 1.5 inches long when fully mature.
– They prefer warm water between 70-82°F and a pH between 4-7.
– In the wild they form large schools of hundreds to thousands of individuals.
– Their transparent bodies with the blue stripe provide camouflage by breaking up their outline in vegetation. The blue stripe also helps maintain school structure.
– Neon tetras are omnivores and eat insects, worms, crustaceans and plant matter in the wild.
– Breeding tetra display more intense red and blue colors as the males try to impress females.
– They spawn by scattering eggs among plant leaves. No parental care is provided.
– Neon tetras are one of the most popular aquarium fish. Selective breeding has produced long-fin and albino varieties.
Caring for Transparent Fish
The transparent bodies of glassfish and neon tetras make them delicate and require some specialized care compared to other aquarium fish:
Water Quality
– Maintain excellent water quality and filtration. Perform regular testing and partial water changes.
– Avoid ammonia and nitrite spikes which can damage internal organs visible through the transparent skin.
– Match pH and hardness to species preferences. Neon tetras prefer very soft, acidic water for example.
Nutrition
– Feed a varied diet of small foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and high quality flakes and pellets.
– Many transparent fish are prone to bloating and constipation on low fiber diets. Include occasional greens like spirulina.
– Feed several small meals throughout the day rather than one large meal. This promotes better digestion and health.
Tank Setup
– Provide plenty of swimming space in long tanks.
– Use fine gravel or a sandy substrate to avoid damaging delicate skin.
– Include plenty of live plants for shelter and conditions neon tetras prefer.
– Dim lighting helps reduce stress on transparent fish.
– Glassfish require marine setups. Neon tetras need tropical freshwater tanks.
Tankmates
– Avoid housing with aggressive fish that may nip and damage exposed skin and organs.
– Select passive community fish appropriate for water conditions.
– Provide plenty of hiding spots if housing with predatory or territorial fish.
Lifespan
– With excellent care, neon tetras may live 5-8 years in captivity. Glassfish can potentially reach 10 years.
– Transparent skin increases susceptibility to disease and parasites which can reduce lifespan.
Conclusion
Transparent fish with neon stripes like glassfish and neon tetras make fascinating and stunning additions to specialized aquariums. Their see-through bodies provide a unique view of their internal anatomy and behaviors. Glassfish require marine setups and school in the open water of coral reefs, while neon tetras prefer heavily planted freshwater tanks. Both have horizontal neon stripes that likely serve purposes like camouflage and schooling coordination. Their transparent skin also requires pristine water quality and care to avoid damage to exposed organs. With the proper setup and care though, these fish can thrive for years, dazzling their owners with their brilliant and otherworldly beauty. Taking the time to properly understand the needs of these fish will allow you to fully enjoy observing their graceful movements and glowing colors.
