Bumblebee Catfish

Adults reach approximately 3 cm in length. Their colouration consists of orange-yellow tones with alternating dark markings. This pattern is the reason for the name "wasp", which is also the translation of the Latin word vespa in the scientific name. The fish has a large head with several long barbels and a rather slender, narrow body. The fins are short, as is the tail. Sexual dimorphism is weak, and external differences between males and females are minimal.

This species originates from Southeast Asia. Akysis vespa is endemic to the upper Salween River basin, located on the border between Thailand and Myanmar. Its natural habitat consists of fast-flowing streams and small rivers with sandy and rocky substrates. The water in these habitats is typically clear and clean, becoming slightly turbid only during the rainy season. Plants are generally absent, but the bottom accumulates large amounts of leaf litter and wood.

This peaceful and calm fish cannot compete with more active catfish species, so tank mates should be chosen from the water column or surface dwellers. Neons, other small tetras, danios and rasboras make excellent companions.

A group of 5–6 fish requires a minimum aquarium volume of 40 litres. Decoration can be quite simple: large boulders and pieces of wood arranged on a sandy substrate serve as the main decor. Since the bumblebee catfish is nocturnal, it prefers to hide in crevices between rocks during the day, so such shelter must be provided. Without it, the fish may choose less suitable places, such as between internal equipment and tank walls. Although aquatic plants are not characteristic of their natural habitat, they may be used to plant the tank. Both artificial plants and undemanding live species such as Anubias, Bucephalandra, mosses and ferns can be used. As inhabitants of flowing waters, the orange stone catfish requires clean, oxygen-rich water. A moderate water current is also beneficial. These conditions are provided by good filtration. Do not neglect regular tank maintenance, including weekly water changes of 30–50% of the tank volume and timely removal of organic waste.

Feeding occurs at night. The basis of their diet consists of small zooplankton. In the home aquarium, live or frozen foods such as artemia, daphnia and bloodworms are recommended. Over time, with regular feeding, they may adapt to dry foods in the form of flakes or pellets. Feed the fish shortly before the aquarium light is turned off.

In nature, spawning begins with the arrival of the rainy season. It is stimulated by a drop in water temperature (approximately 7°C) and a change in water chemistry towards neutral pH values. The egg incubation period is 4 days, after which the fry begin to swim freely 11 days later. They grow rapidly, reaching adult size within a month. Successful breeding of Akysis vespa in home aquariums is rare, as spawning requires special conditions.

Most health problems in fish often arise from unsuitable keeping conditions. Maintaining a stable and comfortable environment is key to successful keeping. If disease symptoms appear, first check the water quality. If any deviations are detected, take immediate steps to correct them. If symptoms do not disappear or worsen, medication may be needed.

When purchasing, choose active fish with clean skin free from visible damage, ulcers or white coating. Since bumblebee catfish are nocturnal predators, they often hide in the shop, so ask the seller to carefully lift decorations to check the condition of the fish. Avoid specimens with sunken bellies or signs of emaciation, as these fish may be sensitive to transport and keeping conditions. Note that members of the family Akysidae have venomous glands at the base of their fin spines, so exercise caution when handling to avoid injury to yourself or the fish.