Golden Pencilfish care guide
Golden Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) — minimum tank 60 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7.5.
Overview
The Golden Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a small lebiasinid native to lowland tributaries of the Amazon and Essequibo basins. The species has a slim cigar-shaped body with a dark lateral stripe and warm golden-brown sheen along the flanks; males display reddish fins during breeding.
Taxonomy
- Family: Lebiasinidae
- Genus: Nannostomus
- Scientific name: Nannostomus beckfordi
- Common synonyms: Beckford's Pencilfish
Habitat
Found in soft, slightly acidic blackwater and clearwater tributaries of the lower Amazon, the Negro and the Essequibo river systems in Brazil, Guyana and Suriname, typically in slow-moving streams shaded by overhanging vegetation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L (15.9 US gal)
- Adult size: 4-6 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- School size: ≥6 individuals
Diet
A micro-predator that feeds on tiny invertebrates and zooplankton in the wild. In aquaria offer crushed flakes, micro-pellets and small live or frozen foods such as cyclops, daphnia and newly hatched brine shrimp.
Compatibility
A peaceful mid-water shoaling species best kept in groups of six or more in a planted aquarium with subdued lighting. Suitable tankmates include small characins, Corydoras and freshwater dwarf shrimp such as Neocaridina.
Breeding
An egg-scatterer that spawns among fine-leaved plants. Soft, acidic water and dim lighting trigger breeding; eggs are non-adhesive and parents should be removed promptly.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern. The species is widely distributed and most aquarium specimens are captive-bred.