Family: Anostomidae
Distribution: Anostomus ternetzi, better known as Headstander, is distributed in the fast-flowing rivers of South America. It is seen in the Araguaia, Orinoco and Amazon River basis, as well as coastal rivers of Guianas.
PH: 5.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (76 – 84°F)
Hardness: 8 – 20 dH
Description: The Headstander, which can reach up to 15 cm in length, has a long, pike-like body. Its colour can ranges from brown to black and has three yellow stripes that go along its body. This species has transparent fins, appointed head and an upturned mouth. You can expect the Headstander to live for 5 – 8 years if looked after properly.
Diet: Anostomus ternetzi is an omnivore and will accept flake, algae and small live foods such as shrimp and bloodworm. You can also indulge this species with vegetables – lettuce and spinach tend to be well received – and it may take a few bites from your plants. It is very important to keep algae as a staple diet; it is required to keep the fish in good health.
Breeding: The Headstander is a spawning fish; so far there have been no reported cases of successful breeding in the hobby. Headstanders, as a rule, are usually best bred by separating the males and females and stacking them up on live foods, before reintroducing them into a prepared, spawning-friendly tank. You might consider increasing the temperature slightly and covering the aquarium with a towel – in order to create a dark “mood light” and to keep the temperature up – in order to trigger spawning. Take the parents from the tank once the deed has been done: they have a tendency to eat the eggs.
Comments: You will need to allow this fish quite a lot of space in your aquarium. About 120 litres is a good volume for 4 – 5 Headstanders. Make sure you cover the top of your tank, as this fish can quite often jump straight out. This is an interesting and visually appealing fish, but beginners should not attempt to breed it as it is a near-impossible task.
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Recommended Compatible Species: This species can be territorial at times and you should house them in groups of six to avoid clashes. Headstanders can be housed with peaceful cichlids or short-finned characins.
Originally posted 2010-01-26 11:02:22. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
