Sailfin Glass Perch

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The Sailfin Glass Perch, also known as the Sailfin Glassfish, is a fascinating Australian native fish prized for its translucent body, silvery sheen and distinctive tall dorsal fin. Its subtle yellowish colouring and delicate, net-like scale pattern create an understated appearance that stands out in a natural freshwater aquarium.

Fishes of Australia

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Native to northern Australia and parts of New Guinea, this active fish is an interesting choice for aquarists looking to keep less-common freshwater species. Sailfin Glass Perch are generally peaceful with suitable tank mates, although they may compete with one another for food or display aggression if kept in unsuitable groups or cramped conditions.

Provide plenty of open swimming space alongside aquatic plants, driftwood and sheltered areas. Good filtration, stable water quality and regular maintenance are important for keeping these fish healthy.

Sailfin Glass Perch are naturally predatory and often prefer live or frozen foods, including brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms. Some individuals may accept prepared foods after acclimating, but a varied diet of appropriately sized food is recommended. Avoid housing them with tiny fish or shrimp that may be small enough to eat.

Practical Fishkeeping

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Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Ambassis agrammus

• Common Names: Sailfin Glass Perch, Sailfin Glassfish

• Origin: Northern Australia and New Guinea

• Care Level: Moderate

• Adult Size: Approximately 6–7 cm

• Temperature: 22–27°C

• pH: Approximately 6.5–7.5

• Diet: Carnivore

• Temperament: Generally peaceful; may be competitive with its own kind

• Swimming Level: Middle to upper levels

• Aquarium Type: Freshwater; can also tolerate low-brackish conditions

• Lifespan: Depends on care and aquarium conditions

Care requirements can vary with the population and the conditions in which the fish have been raised.

Fishes of Australia

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Sailfin Glass Perch freshwater fish?

Yes. They can be kept in freshwater and are also capable of tolerating low-brackish conditions. Confirm the requirements of your particular stock before changing salinity.

2. What do Sailfin Glass Perch eat?

They prefer small animal-based foods, such as frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms. Some may learn to accept suitable prepared foods.

3. Can they live with other community fish?

Yes, with similarly sized, peaceful fish that share their water requirements. Avoid very small fish and shrimp that could be eaten.

4. How big do Sailfin Glass Perch grow?

They typically reach around 6–7 cm, making them a manageable size for a suitably planned aquarium.

5. Do Sailfin Glass Perch need plants?

Plants are beneficial because they provide shelter and environmental enrichment. Leave enough open water for swimming.

6. Are they suitable for beginners?

They are better suited to aquarists comfortable with maintaining stable water quality and providing a varied diet, particularly if the fish initially refuse prepared foods.

Common Mistakes

• Keeping them with fish small enough to be eaten.

• Offering only standard flakes when they are not accepting them.

• Allowing water quality to deteriorate.

• Keeping them in cramped aquariums without swimming space.

• Ignoring competition or aggression between individuals.

• Changing salinity abruptly when moving between freshwater and brackish conditions.