Headstander - Leporinus affinis

Scientific name: Leporinus affinis

Common name: Headstander

Family: Anostomidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 19 - 24 cm (7.48 - 9.45 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 7.7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 14°N (71.43 - 250ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Although Headstander is classed as predatory it will accept vegetable matter. Its main diet should consist of blood worms, brine shrimp, and frozen shrimps. It will also require spirulina flake, pellets and cucumber or peas.

Origin

South and Central America; Headstanders are to be found in the Amazonian Basins.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between the sexes.

Breeding

As of yet, there are no reported cases of Leporinus affinis breeding in the aquarium.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Leporinus affinis is 5 years.

Short description

Headstanders have been known to jump out of tanks, always use a tight fitting lid. They are best kept in groups but may have disagreements with each other every now and again. Power heads should be added to the tank to provide strong water current. Using live plants will not work as they will get eaten; add artificial ones to provide some cover for the fish.

Profile log

Page updated on 07/10/2007 (dd/mm/yyyy) because it was referring to a synonym of fish listed here.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.