Can you imagine a fully transparent fish? Although it may sound like something out of a science fiction movie, these fish do exist on our planet. With bodies so clear that you can see inside, they have astonished both scientists and amateurs. Below, we will explore some of the species de peces known transparents and their most fascinating characteristics.
Why are fish transparent?
Transparency in fish is due to a series of evolutionary adaptations that allow these species to camouflage themselves in their environment. This type of characteristic is especially useful for protecting themselves from predators. In addition, the absence of pigments in their bodies, together with the lack of scales in some species, is what generates their crystalline appearance. Some transparent fish use this advantage to survive in environments where light is scarce, such as at great depths. However, not all of them live in these places; some live in fresh water and are frequently seen in aquariums.
The Barreleye Fish (Macropinna microstoma)
One of the most fascinating species is the Barreleye o Macropinna microstoma, discovered in 1939. This peculiar fish lives in the depths of the ocean, more than 600 meters below the surface. It was not until 2004 that scientists at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) were able to capture good quality images and obtain more data on its behavior.
The most curious thing about this fish is that it has a completely transparent head, which allows it to observe through a kind of 'dome' filled with liquid. Inside this dome are its real eyes, which are two large green spheres. These tube eyes They allow the fish to look up to detect prey, but can also rotate their eyes forward in search of food. These eyes are also coated with a substance that filters light to better detect bioluminescent prey such as jellyfish.
The Glass Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus)
Another incredibly transparent fish is the Crystal Catfish (Kryptopterus vitreolus), very popular in the aquarium world. Originally from Southeast Asia, this species lives in warm, freshwater rivers in countries such as Thailand and Indonesia.
Although not all of its body is completely transparent, its skin and muscles are, allowing the spine and internal organs to be clearly seen. In addition to this transparency, the species is known for being gregarious, so it is advisable to keep them in groups inside aquariums, where their synchronized swimming is a visual spectacle that many hobbyists enjoy. However, special care must be taken to keep their habitat in optimal conditions, since they require large aquariums of at least 80 liters and plants that offer them areas of shade.
Indian Glass Perch (Parambassis ranga)
Another representative of transparent fish is the Indian Crystal Perch (Parambassis ranga), a species native to the rivers and estuaries of India, Burma and Thailand. Similar to the Glass Catfish in terms of its body transparency, the Glass Perch is often the victim of an improper practice in the aquarium world: some breeders inject artificial pigments into their skin to make them more visually attractive. This, unfortunately, often causes serious allergies or diseases, and considerably reduces their life expectancy. Therefore, it is advisable to acquire specimens in their natural state and avoid supporting this type of commercial practice.
Other species de peces transparent
- Tetra Jellybean: Also called 'jellyfish', these small freshwater fish live in West Africa. The females of this species are completely transparent, while the males have brightly colored spots.
- Six-eyed fish (Dolichopteryx longipes): This fish is another inhabitant of the ocean depths. Its most notable feature is its six eyes; four of them are used to detect predators, while the other two detect prey.
- Cyanogaster noctivaga:This small species only measures about 17 millimetres in length and was only recently catalogued in 2013. Its name, which means “blue night eater”, refers to its nocturnal habits and internal colouring.
Care for keeping transparent fish in aquariums
If you are interested in keeping these species in your aquarium, it is important to keep in mind some recommendations. Transparent fish, such as the glass catfish or the glass perch, require aquariums with at least 80 liters of capacity and abundant vegetation, which allows them to hide when they need to. In addition, the water quality must be maintained with sponge filters and an adequate balance of beneficial bacteria. water temperatures are essential, and must be kept between 23ºC and 26ºC.
On the other hand, they should never be exposed to artificial coloring. Although some breeders apply dyes to make them more colorful, this causes health problems in the fish and reduces their lifespan. It is better to enjoy the natural beauty of these amazing fish.
The transparent fish They are unique species that have managed to develop sophisticated evolutionary adaptations to survive in complex environments. From their transparency to avoid predators to curious anatomical structures such as the tubular eyes of the goblin fish, these animals are a wonder of nature. With proper care, some transparent fish can be kept in aquariums, offering a fascinating visual spectacle, although it is essential to ensure optimal conditions and avoid harmful practices such as dye injection.