Striped Headstander

The striped headstander is an eye-catching species with three thick black stripes running along its golden-yellow body and reddish fin bases. It gets its name from the tilted, head-down posture it holds while feeding and resting. With its small, upturned mouth it scrapes algae and small organisms off rock and root surfaces. It is a strong, active fish that can exceed 15 cm.

• At least 250 liters for a single fish; 120 cm length. A group needs a much larger tank.
• 23–27°C, pH 6–7.5, soft to moderately hard water; it likes well-oxygenated water with current.
• Piles of rocks and roots; soft plants may be eaten.
• It jumps powerfully; a lid is required.

Omnivorous. Spirulina granules and tablets, blanched vegetables, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and mysis shrimp are suitable.

Cranky toward its own kind; in groups of 2–4 the dominant fish constantly batters the others. For this reason, keep either a single fish or 6 or more in a very large aquarium. It may pick at the fins of slow, long-finned species.

Good companions: sturdy species of similar size: large barbs, plecos, Synodontis and other catfish, medium to large peaceful cichlids.

Avoid: long-finned and slow species, nano fish, shrimp, planted tanks.