Burmese Marble Catfish (Akysis prashadi)

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The Burmese Marble Catfish (Akysis prashadi) is a rare and captivating nano catfish species collected from the fast-flowing streams of Myanmar. Known for its beautifully mottled black and tan body and its compact size, this species thrives in peaceful community or species-specific aquariums with plenty of cover. Despite their shy nature, they are highly sought after for their unique appearance and bottom-dwelling behavior.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Striking Pattern: Beautiful marbled contrast of black and tan
• Peaceful Bottom-Dweller: Perfect for nano and planted tanks
• Rare and Uncommon: A standout for collectors and species enthusiasts
• Low Bioload: Excellent option for small aquariums

Natural Habitat:

Akysis prashadi is native to cool, fast-moving streams in Myanmar, where it lives among leaf litter, rocks, and submerged roots. These environments are highly oxygenated and shaded, with a sandy or gravel substrate.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Java Fern, Anubias, Cryptocoryne, and other low-light tolerant species
• Hardscape: Rounded stones, driftwood, and leaf litter to mimic streambeds
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves and Catappa Bark to provide cover and tannins

Diet and Feeding:

This species is a micro-predator and scavenger that feeds on insect larvae, small crustaceans, and detritus in the wild. In the aquarium, offer a varied diet of sinking micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex. Feed at night or during low-light hours when they are most active.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Very peaceful and reclusive. Best kept with other small, non-aggressive tank mates such as rasboras, small tetras, dwarf shrimp, and snails. Avoid larger or boisterous species that may outcompete them at feeding time.

Shrimp Safe?:

Generally considered shrimp-safe, especially with adult Neocaridina or Caridina. May opportunistically consume very small shrimp or fry, so provide hiding spots if mixing.

Breeding:

Not commonly bred in captivity, and little is known about their reproduction. Observations suggest that they are egg layers, but successful spawning is rare.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 70° - 77° F (21° - 25° C)
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• KH: 2 - 8
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (for a small group)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Carnivorous. Prefers protein-rich sinking foods.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful, shy bottom-dweller. Can be kept singly or in groups.
• Origin: Wild-collected from Myanmar
• Average Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 0.75 – 1.25 inches (1.9 – 3.2 cm)

The Burmese Marble Catfish (Akysis prashadi) is a hidden gem in the nano fish world—perfect for hobbyists who enjoy unique species and creating naturalistic aquascapes with subtle, beautiful detail.

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