Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish

The Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish, Akysis vespa, comes from Myanmar in Southeast Asia and is native to the upper reaches of the Ataran River. It is nocturnal and reaches a size of 3.5 cm. The brown, vertical bands on the orange body are characteristic of this species. Furthermore, the catfish of the wasp catfish family (Akysis) have poisonous pectoral fin spines, which are not dangerous to humans and are only used for self-defense.

Care in the aquarium

In the aquarium, Akysis vespa feels most comfortable in the company of its peers. For a group of at least 5 animals, the aquarium volume should be at least 80 liters. The water should be very oxygen-rich and clean, have good current and be rather cool with a temperature between 17 and 26°C. Since the Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish reacts very sensitively to water contamination, weekly water changes are essential. The substrate should be relatively fine and not sharp-edged. Many hiding places made of roots and dense edge planting ensure its well-being. The Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish can easily be socialized with other peaceful fish and shrimp species.

Feeding

In nature, the Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish has a primarily carnal diet and eats small aquatic creatures such as insect larvae. Ideally, live and frozen food such as mosquito larvae, daphnia or artemia are fed in the aquarium. Protein-containing granules or tabs are usually accepted without any problems. Since the catfish is nocturnal, it should be fed shortly before the light goes out – this is particularly important in community aquariums so that the Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish gets enough food.

Sexual characteristics and breeding

The females of the Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish are a little fuller than their male counterparts, but the sexes are difficult to distinguish, especially in immature animals. Breeding this species in an aquarium is possible. Simulating the rainy season by means of vigorous water changes with soft and cooler water can increase the willingness to spawn. This species of catfish is a free spawner, so the greenish eggs are released freely onto the bottom substrate and no further brood care is carried out. Since the Orange-Banded Hillstream Catfish is a spawning predator, eggs should be laid in a breeding tank and the adults should then be removed from it. The fish larvae hatch after about 4 days and can be fed with very fine live food or dust food a few days later after the yolk sac has been consumed.