Wasp Catfish

Akysis vespa is a minute but spectacularly patterned torrent catfish from the Ataran River system of Myanmar, described as recently as 2003. Its bold black-and-yellow banding across a torpedo-shaped body gives it an appearance reminiscent of the wasp that inspired its name. It is one of the most visually dramatic small catfish in the hobby and is highly sought by specialists, though it demands very specific environmental conditions.

In the aquarium, Akysis vespa requires cool, well-oxygenated water with strong current, replicating the rocky hill streams of its native habitat. It is intolerant of warm temperatures and low oxygen, and will deteriorate rapidly if these conditions are not maintained. Best kept in small groups of three to five individuals, it is an active, diurnal species that moves confidently over rock surfaces in moderate to strong current.

Feed with small frozen invertebrates such as daphnia, bloodworm, and brine shrimp nauplii placed in the current flow. This species is peaceful and compatible with other cool-water hillstream inhabitants such as Schistura loaches, hillstream loaches, and other Akysis species. Its extraordinary colouration and fascinating lifestyle make it the crown jewel of any hillstream catfish collection.

Water: 18–24°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderately hard (GH 5–15); high oxygenation and strong flow essential. Tank: 40 L minimum; smooth river stones; powerful powerhead; group of 3–5 individuals. Feeding: Frozen daphnia, bloodworm, brine shrimp nauplii; place food in current flow. Breeding: Not reported in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful; best with hillstream loaches and other cool-water micro-species.