Spotted headstander

Chilodus punctatus

Scale-centred spots and head-down swimming; the stripe can fade

Dark dots mark the silver-brown body. It usually swims head-down.

Natural habitat: Native to the Amazon basin, the Guianas and western Orinoco drainage systems.

May bite leaves and nip fins. Sensitive to organic waste; use an established aquarium.

Appearance and identification

Gracilis has a broader persistent stripe, while the stripe of punctatus is variable. Local variation limits visual identification.

Provide retreats and watch for disputes. Keep ten to fifteen.

Use a 90 × 30 cm base.

Provide vegetable-based sinking foods plus suitable animal foods. Grazing does not replace feeding.

Watch for intimidation by active companions and for this fish's own nipping.

Hard leaves and vegetable foods may reduce damage but do not guarantee plant safety.

Sources