Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Live Plant Safe: Yes
General Description: The Striped Headstander, also referred to as the Anostomus Headstander, is a type of tetra found widely throughout the Amazon region in Peru, Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana in South America. Striped headstanders are extremely charming fish, following suit of their name in that they posture nose down as if they are doing a headstand. They are somewhat torpedo-shaped with a tan base color, red tail and several dark horizontal stripes across the body. The appearance of this fish is somewhat reminiscent of pencilfish (Nannostomus). Striped headstanders can be quite shy and skittish, thus requiring at least a group of 6 individuals and careful selection of harmonious tank mates for the best success. An adult Checkered headstander can grow to approximately 6″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild the Striped headstanders are omnivores. A diet made up of various high quality vegetable and protein based flake foods and sinking pellet foods are ideal, in addition to offering frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp that contains spirulina algae and other mixed freshwater preparations. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.
Care Requirements: A very established, minimum 55 gallon aquarium is needed for a group of Striped headstanders. This fish can not be put into a biologically immature aquarium. Weekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters pristine (Nitrates < 15 ppm) as Striped headstanders do not like high nitrates and deteriorating water parameters. Striped headstanders require gentle water flow and soft water. Driftwood or branches, live plants (particularly floating types) and a sandy or fine substrate are components for the ideal environment of a Striped headstander. Avoid overly aggressive tank mates. Compatible options include a handful of tetra, catfish and more docile cichlids for example but avoid fish that stay too small and could be eaten as your Striped headstander grows. Recommended water conditions, 76-82° F, KH 3-18, pH 6.0-7.5.
Purchase Size: Medium: 2” to 3”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
