A shy spotted Amazonian Chilodus punctatus

a shy spotted amazonian

The spotted headstander (Chilodus punctatus) is a shy and sensitive species that is found in slow flowing waterways and floodplain lakes throughout most of the Amazon drainage. Like other headstanders, the mouth is slightly upturned, and it swims in a head-down position. Spotted headstanders are best kept in a mature aquarium (they are sensitive to dissolved organic wastes) with a sandy substrate and plenty of cover (branches, roots, and floating plants). Along with good quality sinking food, they should be fed fresh vegetables, algal wafers, fruit, and small live or frozen invertebrates (e.g. brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms). Spotted headstanders grow to about 8 cm and are suited to temperatures of 24 to 28 °C and pH’s of 6.0 to 7.5.

Photo Jörn