Golden Pencilfish

Scientific name: Nannostomus beckfordi
Common names: Beckford’s Pencilfish, Golden Pencilfish

Description

The Beckford’s Pencilfish is a small, slender characin native to the slow-moving streams and flooded forest areas of South America (Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil). Its elongated body and distinctive “pencil-like” swimming posture make it a striking addition to community aquariums. Males develop vivid red, gold, and black coloration, especially when courting.

Size

• Grows to about 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches).

Temperament

• Generally peaceful and best kept in groups of at least 6–8 individuals.

• Displays natural schooling behaviour and looks best in larger groups.

• May nip fins of very slow, long-finned tankmates if not kept in adequate numbers.

Tank Requirements

• Tank size: 60 litres minimum.

• Water parameters:

  • Temperature: 22–28°C

  • pH: 5.5–7.5

  • Hardness: 2–12 dGH

• Aquascape: Prefers a planted aquarium with shaded areas, floating plants, and subdued lighting. A dark substrate will help bring out their colours.

Diet

• Omnivorous; accepts fine flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen/live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.

• A varied diet will enhance coloration and vitality.

Breeding

• Egg scatterers that spawn among fine-leaved plants.

• Best bred in a dedicated tank with very soft, acidic water.

• Parents do not care for the eggs and may eat them.

Compatibility

• Ideal for peaceful community aquariums with small tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, dwarf cichlids, and shrimp.

• Avoid housing with large or aggressive fish.