Marbled Headstander care guide
Marbled Headstander (Abramites hypselonotus) — minimum tank 200 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5.
Overview
The Marbled Headstander (Abramites hypselonotus) is a deep-bodied anostomid from northern South America, recognised by alternating dark and light vertical bars and a characteristic head-down swimming posture.
Taxonomy
- Family: Anostomidae
- Genus: Abramites
- Scientific name: Abramites hypselonotus
Habitat
Native to slow- to moderately flowing tributaries of the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, often among submerged branches and overhanging vegetation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (52.8 US gal)
- Adult size: 12-15 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 4-15 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
Diet
An omnivore with a strong vegetarian leaning. Offer flakes, pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach) and occasional live or frozen invertebrates. Soft aquarium plants will be grazed.
Compatibility
A semi-aggressive species. Keep singly or in a large group (six or more) to disperse intraspecific aggression; small groups often produce a dominant aggressor. Compatible with robust mid- and large-sized peaceful species in a 200 L+ aquarium.
Breeding
Captive breeding is rarely reported and is largely confined to commercial aquaculture.