Akysis Vespertinus

Datasheet

Behaviour

The Akysis vespertinus is nonaggressive towards conspecifics and can be kept singly or in a group as preferred. It is not particularly competitive and should not be housed with significantly larger or more aggressive tankmates. Ideal companions include miniature schooling cyprinids such as Boraras, Microdevario, or smaller Danio/Rasbora species. Other suitable tankmates are similarly-sized akysid catfishes, smaller sisorids like Erithistes and Hara, various balitorid loaches, and certain members of the Botiidae, Cobitidae, and Nemacheilidae families. Akysis vespertinus can coexist peacefully with freshwater shrimp.

Feeding and Diet

As primarily nocturnal micropredators, Akysis species feed on small aquatic crustaceans, worms, insect larvae, and zooplankton. They may be selective eaters in captivity, sometimes refusing dried foods initially. It's recommended to offer small live or frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia, bloodworms, or glassworms ideally after dark to observe their natural feeding behavior. Once settled, most specimens will emerge during feeding times, but smaller individuals may require food chopped into smaller pieces.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

The reproduction of Akysis vespertinus remains unreported, but successful spawning events in related species were triggered by temperature decreases. Sexual dimorphism has been observed in other Akysis species, with males and females displaying distinguishing features in the placement and structure of the anal and genital papilla, as well as differences in fin morphology. In some species, males may have a conical genital papilla, while females present a flattened papilla with radial grooves at the pore.

Habitat and Distribution

Found exclusively in the headwaters of the Ann Chaung river system in Rakhine state, western Myanmar, Akysis vespertinus inhabits swiftly-flowing streams and rivers with substrates of sand, gravel, and rocks. Typically, their habitat lacks aquatic plants but may include patches of leaf litter and submerged structures like fallen branches. The region has a high level of endemism, with other locally endemic fish species sharing its habitat, indicating a likely broader distribution for A. vespertinus in the area.

Aquarium Setup

To recreate the natural habitat of Akysis vespertinus, provide a soft, sandy substrate as they enjoy burying themselves or wedging into crevices between rocks. Incorporating water-worn rocks, driftwood roots, branches, and leaf litter can enhance their environment. While aquatic plants are uncommon in their native habitat, species like Microsorum, Anubias, and mosses attached to rocks and driftwood can be included. It is essential to maintain pristine water conditions, including high dissolved oxygen levels and adequate water movement, with regular 30-50% tank volume water changes to ensure their well-being.