Marble Headstander 3cm

Marbled Headstander
 

The Marbled Headstander is an incredibly rare and criminally underrated species in Australia which is small, odd, and a fantastic schooling species. Their peaceful nature makes them a great addition to a community tank or a biotope setup. These are species that look especially stunning in large groups of 8 or more fish because of how tight they can stick together and show off their almost vertical swimming pattern. These fish aren’t seen often in aquarium stores simply because of how little awareness there is about them but Marbled Headstanders is a true must-have fish.

Marbled Headstander has quite a literal name, they exhibit this head-standing behaviour that loosely resembles a leaf floating in the water. These fish almost bob in the water vertically which in a large group is not only interesting but also oddly relaxing to watch. Colour-wise, the body is literally marbled with a stunning black and white tiger stripe pattern. Whilst these stripes are more like bands that wrap around the body, there are some that are broken to add a really dynamic pattern. For the overall size of these fish, they do actually have a very pointed face
with a small mouth. Overall, these really are just fun and great oddball
fish to keep.

Breeding the Marbled Headstander can be done in captivity however it can be challenging and is not all that common. These fish breed similarly to a lot of tetra species where the female scatters eggs. Providing a separate breeding tank with fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop will encourage the female to scatter her eggs. The male will fertilise the eggs, but neither parent will protect the eggs or fry them. It is essential to remove the adult fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs or young fish.

Tank Recommendations for your Marble Headstander

As Marbled Headstander are small and enjoy being in groups, a minimum tank size of 70 litres is recommended. These fish are open-water swimmers and will appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of open space. A soft, sandy substrate with driftwood and rocks for hiding is also ideal. Marbled Headstander prefers slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and a temperature between 24-28° C. Using botanicals to create a black water look, which is enhanced by some warm lighting will also work tremendously well to show off their subdued colours and wild nature.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Marbled headstanders are very peaceful and can be kept with a wide range of similarly sized, non-aggressive fish species. They are however quote slow-moving so this should be considered when choosing tank mates.

Usually Compatible

Small Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies, Platies, Discus, small Barbs, Corydoras, and small peaceful catfish.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger Tetras, Angelfish, and Gouramis may sometimes be compatible but could pose a threat due to their size or territorial nature.

Rarely Compatible Marble Headstander

Predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large enough to eat them should be avoided.

Feeding your Marble Headstander

Marbled headstanders are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods. A balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or micro-pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms will keep them healthy and vibrant.