More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.0cm / 1.18inches |
| Temperature | 16.5°C / 61.70°F - 23.5°C / 74.30°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.2 |
General Description
The Akysis Pulvinatus, a member of the Akysidae family under the order Siluriformes, is a small, nocturnal micropredator with distinguishing features such as a slightly forked caudal fin and yellow markings on the snout. These "Asian stream catfishes" are characterized by their slender bodies, possession of venom apparatus, and cryptic color patterns of yellowish bands on a brown background.
Aquarium Setup
Creating a suitable habitat for Akysis Pulvinatus involves providing a soft, sandy substrate for burrowing, decor like rocks and driftwood for hiding places and water-worn crevices, and the possible addition of aquatic plants such as Microsorum or Anubias. Regular water changes and high oxygen levels are essential, along with spotless water conditions to mimic its natural swiftly-flowing stream habitat.
Behaviour
This species is non-aggressive towards conspecifics and prefers the company of peaceful tankmates such as miniature schooling cyprinids, smaller catfish species, and freshwater shrimp. They are nocturnal feeders and may require live or frozen foods like Artemia and bloodworms in their diet, showing natural behavior when fed after dark.
Feeding and Diet
Akysis Pulvinatus primarily feeds on small aquatic crustaceans, worms, insect larvae, and zooplankton, making them nocturnal micropredators. While they may initially refuse dried foods, they can be trained to accept them. Regular offerings of live or frozen foods ensure their nutritional needs are met, with feeding best done after dark to observe their natural behavior.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction in Akysis Pulvinatus is not extensively documented, but successful spawning events have been observed in related species triggered by changes in temperature. Sexual dimorphism, recorded in other Akysis species, includes differences in genital papilla structure and fin lengths between males and females, aiding in their identification.
Habitat and Distribution
Found in swiftly-flowing streams of the Andaman Sea region in southern Thailand, particularly in areas with sandy, gravelly substrates and transparent to slightly turbid water conditions. Akysis Pulvinatus inhabits environments with minimal aquatic vegetation, preferring natural structures like fallen branches and rocks.