[2] It is found in clear, fast-moving streams and tributaries of the Mekong, Nam Xam, Da and Chao Phraya river basins in Indochina.

[3] S. acanthopterus is found in the South-East Asian countries of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam as well in Yunnan, China.

It inhabits several river basins, including the Mekong, Chao Phraya, Nam Theun, and Xe Bangfai, mostly living in smaller tributaries and streams with clear, fast moving water, and a rocky bottom.

[3] It seems to breed immediately following the end of the rainy season as the water levels in the upland areas have fallen with juveniles appearing in catches during April.

It is potentially threatened by deforestation, pollution and overfishing but the population appears to be stable and it is common in some protected areas.