Spotted Headstander care guide
Spotted Headstander (Chilodus punctatus) — minimum tank 150 L, temperature 24-28 °C, pH 5.5-7.
Overview
The Spotted Headstander (Chilodus punctatus) is a slim anostomid that holds its body at a pronounced 45-degree head-down angle. The body is silvery with rows of small dark spots and a dark lateral stripe.
Taxonomy
- Family: Anostomidae
- Genus: Chilodus
- Scientific name: Chilodus punctatus
Habitat
Native to slow-flowing soft, acidic tributaries of the upper Amazon and Orinoco basins in Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela and Peru, often among submerged roots and leaf litter.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L (39.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 8-10 cm
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
An omnivore. Offer micro-pellets, flakes and small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms and daphnia. The species also browses on biofilm and soft algae.
Compatibility
A peaceful shoaling species. Keep a group of at least six in a planted, dimly lit aquarium with soft acidic water. Compatible with other peaceful soft-water characins and dwarf cichlids.
Breeding
Captive breeding has been reported occasionally; spawning occurs in very soft, acidic water among fine-leaved plants. Most commercial stock is wild-caught.