Marbled Headstander

A deep-bodied, dark-banded headstander from South American rivers that swims nose-down. It can be quarrelsome with its own kind, and it will eat soft plants.

Check the scientific name when buying, as common names vary between sellers and countries.

Usually hard to sex, although females are often rounder.

A long tank with a tight lid is best, because these fish jump. Use tough plants or wood, as soft plants are often eaten.

An active fish that often swims nose-down as it picks at surfaces for food.

Often does best in a group, which spreads out aggression between individuals.

Can be quarrelsome with its own kind and similar-looking fish.

Keep with robust fish of a similar size. It may nip long fins. It may nip the fins of slow or long-finned fish, and a larger group usually reduces this. It is likely to eat shrimp. Choose its tankmates with care.

Fairly tolerant of different water, if it is clean and stable.

Takes plant matter as well as small foods. Include plenty of vegetable food.

Feed small amounts, and remove anything left after a few minutes.

An egg scatterer with no parental care. Adults eat eggs and fry, so use a separate tank with fine plants, moss or mesh on the bottom, and remove the adults after spawning. The fry need very small foods at first.