Brown Pencilfish
Nannostomus eques
Advanced
Freshwater
Peaceful and shy. Swims with head pointed upward at a 45° angle. Prefers the surface.
Lebiasinidae
Max Size
34.0 cm (13.4")
Min Tank
40 L (11 gal)
Min Group
6+
Diet
Omnivore. Very small foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, powdered flakes. Surface feeder.
Water Parameters
Temperature
24.0-28.0°C
75-82°F
pH
4.0-7.0
Hardness (dGH)
1.0-8.0
Min Tank Size
40 L
11 gal
About
The Oblique Pencilfish swims with its body tilted at 45°, head pointing up. A dark lateral stripe and red spot on the caudal are distinctive marks. Fascinating for experienced aquarists.
Behavior & Temperament
Peaceful and shy. Swims with head pointed upward at a 45° angle. Prefers the surface.
Feeding
Omnivore. Very small foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, powdered flakes. Surface feeder.
Breeding
Oviparous. Lays eggs among surface plants. Breeding is difficult in captivity.
Care Notes
Very soft and acidic water. Floating plants. Almost no current. Minimal tankmates.
Compatibility
Only with very peaceful, small fish. Ideal for species-specific tanks or biotopes.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Nannostomus eques |
|---|---|
| Family | Lebiasinidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Advanced |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 34.0 cm (13.4") |
| Min Tank | 40 L (11 gal) |
| Min Group | 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore. Very small foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, powdered flakes. Surface feeder. |
| Temperament | Peaceful and shy. Swims with head pointed upward at a 45° angle. Prefers the surface. |
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