Spotted Headstander 3.5cm

Spotted Headstander

The Spotted Headstander is a comical and criminally underrated species that is small, active, 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 20 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 Spotted Headstanders are a true must-have fish. 

Spotted Headstander have 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. Colouration wise the body is split between a metallic grey back and a platinum white belly. The two colours blend together towards the tail which is all contrasted by an array of jet-black spots that run from head to tail. Spotted Headstanders can also sport a sheen of jade green which starts from their blood red eye colour. 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. Spotted Headstander can be bred 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 fertilize the eggs, but neither parent will protect the eggs or fry. It is essential to remove the adult fish after spawning to prevent them from eating the eggs or young fish.

Tank Recommendations for your Spotted Headstander

As Spotted 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. Spotted Headstanders prefer 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

Spotted Headstanders are very peaceful and can be kept with a wide range of similarly sized, non-aggressive fish species.

Usually Compatible

Small Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies, Platies, 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 Spotted Deadstander

Predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large enough to eat the Silver Tip Tetra should be avoided.

Feeding your Spotted Headstander

Spotted 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.