Striped Headstander Care Guide
Anostomus anostomus is a striped headstander from the Amazon and Orinoco basins that swims head-down and grazes on algae, plant matter and small invertebrates.
Overview
Anostomus anostomus is a headstander of the family Anostomidae, the toothed headstanders. It has an elongated body crossed by bold dark lateral stripes and characteristically swims at a head-down angle. FishBase gives a maximum length of about 16 cm total length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Anostomidae
- Genus: Anostomus
- Scientific name: Anostomus anostomus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the Amazon and Orinoco River basins and Suriname. It is a benthopelagic freshwater fish that frequents vegetated and rocky areas where it grazes on surfaces.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more, or keep singly to limit conflict
- Lifespan: 5-8 years
- Provide rockwork and current; expect grazing on soft plants
Diet
FishBase describes the species as both a limnivore and omnivore, with adults feeding on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter. In the aquarium it should receive a varied diet including vegetable matter and algae, supplemented with small live and frozen foods. It will graze on soft aquatic plants.
Compatibility
This is a semi-aggressive, mid-water fish that can be territorial toward conspecifics. It is best kept either singly or in a larger group of five or more to spread aggression, alongside robust tankmates such as larger tetras and plecos. Small or delicate fish and soft-leaved plants are at risk.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020).