Ternetzi Headstander

Ternetzi Headstander (Anostomus Ternetzi)

The Ternetzi Headstander, also known as Banded Headstander, is an intriguing freshwater fish known for its unique head-down swimming behavior and attractive coloration. They possess elongated bodies with alternating dark brown and light yellow vertical bands. Ternetzi Headstanders are typically peaceful, but may display territorial behavior towards their own kind.

They grow up to 5 inches in length and are best kept in groups of 5 or more to help alleviate territorial issues. These fish are compatible with a variety of similarly sized, peaceful to semi-aggressive tank mates, such as tetras, rasboras, and certain dwarf cichlids. It's best to avoid keeping them with slow-moving or long-finned fish, as Ternetzi Headstanders may occasionally their tankmates nip fins.

Ternetzi Headstanders are omnivorous with a preference for algae and biofilm. In the aquarium, their diet should include high-quality flake or pellet foods, algae wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

To create a suitable environment for Ternetzi Headstanders, provide a well-decorated aquarium with plenty of swimming space, a soft sandy substrate, driftwood, and rocks for hiding places, as well as dense vegetation for grazing. Incorporate dense vegetation for Elongate Headstanders to graze on algae, as this species is unlikely to eat plants' leaves or tender shoots. Anubias species are an ideal plant choice to accompany this headstander, as they can promote substantial biofilm and algae growth in an aquarium with moderate to high lighting. Provide well-oxygenated water with a decent amount of movement and use bright lighting to encourage the growth of algae.

A minimum tank size of 40 gallons is recommended, with larger tanks being more suitable for multiple individuals. The ideal water parameters are a pH of 6.0-7.5, hardness of 5-15 dGH, and a temperature of 75-82°F (24-28°C).
A tight-fitting cover is essential as Anostomus spp. are excellent jumpers.