Water parameters
Overview
The spotted headstander has a pattern of rows formed by small dark spots on the scales of its beige-silver body; a dark line also runs from the snout through the eye to the tail. It swims head-down at an angle and picks food from the substrate and leaf surfaces. It is a calm, peaceful species that reaches 8–10 cm; of the headstanders, it is the best suited to a community tank.
Tank Setup
- At least 120 liters for a group of 5–8.
- 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7, soft water.
- Roots, leaf litter, plants and dim light; gentle flow.
- Mature, clean water; it is sensitive to nitrate buildup.
Diet
Omnivorous. Spirulina granules and tablets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia are suitable. It may occasionally pick at soft-leaved plants.
Behavior and Compatibility
Peaceful and lives in small groups. It does not harm other species; when kept with very active, greedy species it may lose out at feeding time.
Good companions: medium-sized tetras, corydoras, plecos, dwarf cichlids, discus, pencilfish.
Avoid: large predators, aggressive cichlids, very active species.
A short profile for this species
The Spotted Headstander page has the basics, but the sections below have not been written yet. If you keep this species, write a section from your own experience; it will be published under your name after editor approval.
Tank mates
This list is calculated automatically from the species profile and grows as new species are added to the catalog. Try it in the planner for a definite answer.
Usually compatible
Flame Tetra
Blackfin Corydoras
Polystictus Corydoras
Emerald Betta
Emerald Cory
Porthole Catfish
Keyhole Cichlid
Cupid Cichlid
Geophagus altifrons
Geophagus surinamensis
Should not be kept together
Hobbyist notes
Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.
Change history and contributors
- Page created · October 16, 2026