Indawgyi Stream Catfish (Akysis prashadi)

The Indawgyi Stream Catfish (Akysis prashadi) is a fascinating fish species found in the freshwater streams of Southeast Asia. Let’s dive into some interesting details about this unique catfish:

• Distribution: The Indawgyi Stream Catfish is described from the southern shore of Lake Indawgyi and surrounding waters close to the town of Kamaing, Kachin State, northern Myanmar. These areas fall within the upper Irrawaddy/Ayeyarwady river drainage. Lake Indawgyi, the largest inland lake in Southeast Asia, is under national protection and forms the Indawgyi Wildlife Sanctuary. Unfortunately, illegal logging has impacted parts of the region, which is a biodiversity hotspot.

• Habitat: These catfish inhabit swiftly-flowing streams and rivers with substrates consisting of sand, gravel, and rocks. The water is usually transparent to slightly turbid, and during rainy periods, suspended material increases significantly. While aquatic plants are not common, there may be patches of leaf litter or underwater structures like fallen branches. The Indawgyi area hosts a rich variety of fish species, including representatives of Acanthocobitis, Lepidocephalichthys, Schistura, Pseudambassis, and more.

• Size: The largest officially-recorded specimen measured 62 mm, making it one of the largest in its genus.

• Aquarium Care: If you’re considering keeping the Indawgyi Stream Catfish in an aquarium, here are some guidelines:

  • Tank Size: A tank with base dimensions of 45 cm × 30 cm is sufficient, even for a group.
  • Substrate: Provide a soft, sandy substrate since these catfish spend some of their time completely buried or with only their eyes protruding.
  • Décor: They enjoy squeezing into crevices between rockwork and other solid surfaces. Consider adding water-worn rocks, driftwood roots, and branches.
  • Plants: Although aquatic plants are unlikely in their natural habitat, you can add some that attach to rocks and wood, such as Microsorum, Anubias, or various moss species.
  • Water Parameters:
    • pH: 6.5 - 7
    • Water hardness (dGH): 2 - 11°N
    • Temperature: 19 - 23°C (66.2 - 73.4°F)