Family: Anostomidae
Distribution: Abramites hypselonotus is distributed in the South American waters of Orinoco, Amazon, Paraguay and the lower Parana River basins. They are typically found in fast-flowing waters and rivers with plenty of rocks.
PH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 23 – 27°C (73 – 81°F)
Hardness: 2 – 18 dH
Description: The Marbled Headstander can reach a maximum length of 14 cm. This species has a distinctive pointed snout and a diamond-shaped body. It has a dark line at the bottom of its caudal peduncle, dark brown bands and some brown markings on its pelvic fin. This species is incredibly hard to sex, although males tend to have a lump on their belly. On a positive note, the Marbled Headstander can live for an impressive 14 years – if cared for properly.
Diet: The Marbled Headstander is herbivorous and will enjoy lettuce and peas on top of its processed food diet. You can even feed it bloodworms and mosquito larvae on special occasions.
Breeding: Abramites hypselonotus has not yet been bred in an aquarium environment; there is little information available on its breeding requirements.
Comments: You should keep this species in a typical South American tank setup with plenty of hiding spaces – roots are a good idea – and room to swim. Provide rocks to simulate its natural environment. Be careful; it will eat any plants you have. If you desperately want to have plants in your tank, make sure they are tough ones – Java Fern is an example of a hardy, durable plant. Also, make sure you cover your tank: this species has been known to jump straight out of the tank.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: The Marbled Headstander can have a bit of an attitude towards other species, so be wary when selecting tank mates. It can be compatible with Silver Dollars and Severums, as well as medium-sized Cichlids.
Originally posted 2010-01-26 10:36:20. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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