Orsias

Orsias is a genus of small to medium-sized freshwater fish belonging to the family Cyprinidae, which includes minnows and carps. The genus is native to the Indomalayan realm, with species found in rivers and streams across Southeast Asia, including India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia. Orsias species are typically characterized by their elongated, slender bodies and small, translucent scales. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of aquatic organisms and plant material.

The genus Orsias includes several species, with the most well-known being Orsias nearpugio, commonly known as the near pugio orsias. This species is notable for its distinctive appearance, with a long, slender body and a small, rounded head. It is found in the Mekong River basin and its tributaries in Laos, Thailand, and Cambodia.

Orsias species play an important role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey. They are often found in areas with slow-moving or still water, where they can feed on a variety of aquatic organisms. Their small size and translucent scales make them difficult to detect, which may help them avoid predators.

Orsias species are not typically of commercial importance, but they are occasionally caught as bycatch in fisheries. Conservation efforts for Orsias species are generally focused on protecting their habitats and reducing pollution in their rivers and streams.