Spotted Headstander, also known as Pearl Headstander, is a fish with the scientific name Chilodus punctatus.
It belongs to the Chilodus genus and is known as a “headstander” fish. Its body has grayish-green colors and rows of brown spots.
The name comes from its unique way of swimming with its head down at a 45-degree angle.
Spotted Headstander typically stays in shaded areas and come out when it’s time to eat.
Spotted Headstander Interesting Facts
- Spotted Headstander swims at a 45-degree angle with its head down.
- Found in South America, including the Amazon River basin.
- Thrives in slightly acidic, soft water at temperatures between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
- Grows up to 7.1 inches (18.0 centimeters) long and weighs up to 2.5 ounces.
Spotted Headstander Habitat
Spotted Headstander is a freshwater fish found in South America, specifically in the Amazon River basin, Apeú River, Pará State, Guyana, Suriname, and the western Orinoco River basin.
It swims near the water’s surface (pelagic). The ideal water conditions for this fish is slightly acidic (pH 6.0 to 7.0) and soft water with a hardness of up to 10 dH.
The preferred temperature range for this tropical fish is between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.0 to 7.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Spotted Headstander Physical Characteristics
Size: 7.1 inches (18.0 centimeters)
Spotted Headstander grows up to 7.1 inches (18.0 centimeters) long.
The heaviest recorded weight for this fish is 70.50 grams (2.5 ounces).
Spotted Headstander Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Chilodontidae |
| Genus: | Chilodus |
| Scientific Name: | Chilodus punctatus |
| Also Known As: | Spotted Headstander, Pearl Headstander |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |