Debauwi Catfish: The African Glass Catfish for Ornamental Fish Importers

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The Schooling Shadow of African Rivers

In the ornamental fish world, transparent or semi-transparent species have always captured aquarists’ imaginations. From Asia, the Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus) has long been admired for its ghostly look. But Nigeria offers its own treasure: the Debauwi Catfish (Pareutropius debauwi), sometimes called the African Glass Catfish.

With their sleek, silver-to-transparent bodies and constant schooling behavior, Debauwi Catfish bring life and motion to aquariums, making them an excellent choice for global exporters seeking something familiar yet exotic..

Source: Seriously fish

Unique Traits of the Debauwi Catfish

1. Sleek, Glasslike Appearance

Their slim, slightly translucent bodies give them a shimmering effect under aquarium lighting. While not completely transparent like the Asian Glass Catfish, their ghostly sheen adds depth and movement to community tanks.

2. True Schooling Fish

Unlike many species that only loosely group, Debauwi Catfish are tight schoolers. They move in synchronized shoals, which is not just beautiful but also rare among African species.

3. Peaceful Personality

They are non-aggressive and community-friendly, making them an easy sell for importers targeting hobbyists who want harmony in their tanks.

4. West African Origin

Endemic to Nigeria and surrounding regions, they offer importers a unique African alternative to the widely traded Asian glass catfish.

5. Active Midwater Swimmers

While many African catfish are bottom-dwellers, Debauwi Catfish patrol the midwater column, constantly in motion and adding liveliness to aquariums.


Market Potential for Export

  • Direct Competition with Asian Glass Catfish: Importers can position Debauwi as the African counterpart with its own charm.

  • High Community Appeal: Because they’re peaceful, they’re suitable for both beginner and advanced aquarists.

  • Demand for Schooling Fish: With aquascaping trends favoring large, moving schools, Debauwi Catfish fit perfectly.

  • Rarity Factor: Still relatively uncommon in global trade, which gives exporters a niche to dominate.


Care and Handling Notes

  • Water Parameters: Soft to medium water, pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 23–27°C.

  • Tank Size: Thrive in groups of 6+, requiring at least a medium-sized aquarium.

  • Diet: Readily accepts flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen/live foods such as daphnia or bloodworms.

  • Tank Setup: Open swimming space with some planted areas for security.


The Debauwi Catfish may be small, but its impact in aquariums is huge. With its schooling elegance, shimmering body, and peaceful temperament, it stands out as a premium choice for ornamental exporters looking to diversify beyond the usual species.

Source: TFH Magazine

👉 Partner with us to bring Nigeria’s Debauwi Catfish and other unique exports to global aquariums. Visit www.mrfishtropicals.com or email mrfish@mrfishtropicals.com today.

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