Laemolyta Taeniata

Datasheet

General Description

The Striped Headstander (Laemolyta taeniata) is the largest-growing species within its genus and is the second most widely distributed. Its distinguishing characteristics include possessing 5 lateral scale rows between the lateral line and dorsal-fin origin, a color pattern similar to L. garmani and L. orinocensis but with specific markings. The family Anostomidae, to which it belongs, is recognized as a monophyletic group with unique anatomical features.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the Striped Headstander should be kept in a group of four or more individuals within a spacious tank that accommodates peaceful, similar-sized fish species. Decor is not a primary concern, but a natural-style setup with a sandy substrate, driftwood, leaf litter, and floating vegetation is suitable. Maintaining good water quality, gentle water flow, subdued lighting, and a secure cover to prevent jumping are essential factors in the tank setup.

Behaviour

This species exhibits relatively peaceful behavior towards its own kind and thrives in a community tank setting with compatible tankmates such as characids, loricariids, doradids, and cichlids. They tend to form large migratory shoals, especially during the wet season, and are known to graze on algae and insect larvae.

Feeding and Diet

The Striped Headstander is an omnivorous grazer that feeds on algae, insect larvae, and other small organisms in its natural habitat. In an aquarium environment, they should be offered a varied diet including small live and frozen foods, as well as vegetable matter like blanched spinach, lettuce, cucumber, courgette, and algae wafers.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproductive behavior of the Striped Headstander remains unrecorded. While sexual dimorphism is unconfirmed, it is presumed that mature females grow slightly larger and have a rounder belly compared to males.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the central region of the Amazon basin, the Striped Headstander is commonly found in rivers and tributaries within Brazil, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Peru. Their habitat varies from main river channels to flooded forest areas, where they form large migratory shoals with other fish species like Leporinus fasciatus and L. agassizii. The species also inhabits oxbows, floodplain lakes, and smaller tributaries.