Headstander | Abramites hypselonotus

Characins / Curimatidae / Headstander

Profile: Headstander, High-backed Headstander
Abramites hypselonotus Synonyms: Leporinus hypselonotus
Physical description: An elongated, tall fish which has an arched back when adult. This fish has large eyes and a small head with a pointed snout. The body coloration is beige to light brown and marked with seven to nine dark stripes. The forehead is yellow and so is the adipose fin. The dorsal and pelvic fins are striped and the other fins are transparent.
Size/Length: To 5.5" (14 cm)
Similar species: None
Habitat: South America; widespread throughout the Orinoco and Amazon Rivers.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: 32" (80 cm) or 30 gallons (114 L). As for other species of the Anostominae family.
Water chemistry: pH 6-7.5 (6.8), 2-18 dH (8), 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Social behavior: The young are peaceful and can be combined in nearly any community tank. Adults do not usually tolerate others of their species.
Suggested companions: See general Headstander description.
FOOD: Algae; vegetable; spinach, lettuce; fruits; vegetable flake food; plants; live; worms, crustaceans, aquatic insects, insect larvae.
SEX: Unknown
Breeding techniques: Unknown
Breeding potential: 10. Breeding is not difficult.
Remarks: This species swims in head pointing downwards position, grazing algae off rocks and searching for fallen food. This fish may jump when frightened.
Difficulty of care: 4. A hardy community fish.