Akysis scorteus

<em>Akysis scorteus</em> is a freshwater catfish belonging to the family Akysidae, a group of small benthic torrent catfishes native to lotic environments of South and Southeast Asia. This species typically attains a maximum recorded length of approximately 3.2 cm, characteristic of the generally small body size found across the genus <em>Akysis</em>. Members of this genus are highly adapted to rheophilic stream habitats, with morphological features including a dorsoventrally flattened body, spine-bearing fins for bracing against substrate, and a roughened skin surface that increases friction with rocky riverbeds. <em>Akysis scorteus</em> is thought to inhabit well-oxygenated, fast-flowing streams at low to mid elevations, where it occupies interstices among cobbles and boulders in riffle zones. Feeding is presumed to involve benthic invertebrates, organic detritus, and associated microorganisms. Nocturnal activity is typical of the genus, with individuals often concealed beneath stones during daylight hours. Details of habitat and range for this species remain limited in the ichthyological literature. The family Akysidae encompasses a modest number of genera distributed from Pakistan through Bangladesh and across the Indochinese Peninsula to the Malay Archipelago, with many species narrowly endemic to single river systems. <em>Akysis scorteus</em> has not been formally assessed for conservation status under any major evaluation framework.