High-backed Headstander

Abramites hypselonotus, the High-backed Headstander, is native to the Amazon basin and the Guianas. Its noticeably deep body profile and dark-edged scales give it an almost herringbone-patterned appearance. It is a dedicated herbivore that grazes constantly in its characteristic head-down posture. Best kept in a larger aquarium with ample grazing surfaces and robust plant species as it will eat soft-leaved plants.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and slightly acidic preferred. Tank: 150 L minimum; robust plants or plant-free setup; provide flat rocks and driftwood for grazing. Feeding: Primarily herbivorous; algae wafers, blanched greens, spirulina-based foods. Behaviour: Peaceful but assertive; best in small groups of 3–5; grazes in head-down posture constantly. Compatibility: Medium to large peaceful fish; avoid soft-leaved plants and very small tank mates.