Anostomus Anostomus

Datasheet

General Description

The Striped Anostomus (Anostomus Anostomus) is a member of the Anostomidae family, known for its oblique 'head-down' swimming posture, giving rise to the common name "headstanders." This species grazes on algae and small invertebrates along the rocky shores of fast-flowing rivers, with a typical size reaching up to 20.0cm. It is distributed throughout the Amazon and Orinoco river systems in South America, particularly in Peru, Brazil, Venezuela, and Guyana.

Aquarium Setup

For an optimal aquarium setup for Striped Anostomus, a biotope-style environment is recommended. This includes a sandy substrate, smooth rocks, driftwood roots and branches penetrating the water surface. While aquatic vegetation can be added, it is likely to be consumed. It is crucial to provide well-oxygenated water with movement and bright lighting to promote algae growth for the fish to graze on. Due to their jumping ability, a secure cover is essential. The recommended tank size is a minimum of 160 litres with specific water conditions requiring a hardness of 18-322 ppm, pH range of 5.5-7.5, and a temperature between 20-28°C.

Behaviour

Striped Anostomus are known to be quarrelsome with conspecifics when kept in small numbers. It is advisable to maintain them in groups of six or more in larger tanks. Alternatively, a single specimen can be housed with peaceful medium to large fish species like larger characids, loricariids, doradids, and peaceful cichlids. Reophilic species are particularly suitable tank mates for them.

Feeding and Diet

Being omnivorous grazers, Striped Anostomus browse solid surfaces for algae, insect larvae, and various small items in their natural habitat. In an aquarium setting, they should be offered small live and frozen foods along with ample vegetable matter such as blanched spinach, lettuce, cucumber, courgette, and algae wafers to ensure a balanced diet.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available on the reproductive behavior of Striped Anostomus. However, it is noted that they are bred on a commercial basis in both South America and Asia. Sexual dimorphism in the species includes mature females growing slightly larger and being rounder-bellied compared to males.

Habitat and Distribution

The typical habitat of Striped Anostomus includes rocky shores in fast-flowing rivers, where they graze on algae and small invertebrates. While the exact type locality is listed broadly as South America, this species is widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, mainly in the Amazon and Orinoco river systems spanning several countries in South America.