Akysis pulvinatus

<em>Akysis pulvinatus</em> is a small freshwater catfish of the family Akysidae, native to running-water habitats across South or Southeast Asia. Adults typically reach a maximum recorded length of approximately 2.96 cm, placing this species among the smaller members of the genus <em>Akysis</em>. The genus is well known for its strongly rheophilic lifestyle, with species typically inhabiting fast-flowing hill streams, mountain tributaries, and rocky-bottomed rivers where dissolved oxygen concentrations are high. The flattened body form, stout fin spines, and highly textured skin of <em>Akysis</em> catfishes are morphological adaptations allowing individuals to maintain their position on coarse substrate under strong current conditions. <em>Akysis pulvinatus</em> is presumed to share these habitat preferences, foraging on or near the streambed for small invertebrates, epilithic biofilm, and organic detritus. Barbels surrounding the mouth aid in sensory detection of food items in turbid or nocturnal conditions. Details of habitat and range for this species remain limited in the ichthyological literature. The Akysidae is a family that remains incompletely known in terms of species diversity, with new taxa described periodically as systematic surveys extend into previously understudied drainages. <em>Akysis pulvinatus</em> has not been evaluated for conservation status, reflecting limited available data on its ecology and distribution.