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A headstander is any of several species of South American fish, including Anostomus ternetzi, Anostomus anostomus (family Anostomidae) and members of genus Chilodus [1][2] from the family Chilodontidae. The name derives from their habit of swimming at a 45° angle, head pointed downwards, as if "standing on their heads".
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Headstanders are a group of freshwater fishes that live in streams of South America.[1][2] Some species, such as Chilodus punctatus and C. gracilis, are common aquarium fishes as well.[2] In nature, they are predominantly found in shallow streams with strong currents and a lot of algae, which they feed off of. They prefer slightly acidic water with medium hardness. The headstander will eat almost any kind of food, but mostly enjoy hair algae.[3] Some headstanders can reach up to 12 cm (4 3/4 inches) in length. They tend to be very active, sensitive to shadows, and like to jump. They also have a tendency to be slightly aggressive. In aquaria, they are most peaceful when kept as a single specimens or in groups of more than 6.[4]
References
edit- ^ a b Babcock, L. E. (2024). "Replacement names for two species of Orthacanthus Agassiz, 1843 (Chondrichthyes, Xenacanthiformes), and discussion of Giebelodus Whitley, 1940, replacement name for Chilodus Giebel, 1848 (Chondrichthyes, Xenacanthiformes), preoccupied by Chilodus Müller & Troschel, 1844 (Actinopterygii, Characiformes)". ZooKeys. 1188: 219–226.
- ^ a b c Isbrücker, I. J. H.; Nijssen, H. (1988). "Review of the South American characiform fish genus Chilodus, with description of a new species, C. gracilis (Pisces, Characiformes, Chilodontidae)". Beaufortia. 38 (3): 47–56.
- ^ "Tropical Fish : Odd Ball & Miscellaneous : Spotted Headstander - Tropical Fish By Post.co.uk". Tropical Fish by Post. Archived from the original on 25 January 2013. Retrieved 12 April 2013.
- ^ "Headstander, Anostomus ternetzi, Red Mouth Headstander Fish Guide". Animal-World. Retrieved 12 April 2013.
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