Golden Pencilfish
Nannostomus beckfordi
Intermediate
Freshwater
Peaceful and elegant. Swims horizontally in the midwater. Different nocturnal pattern (vertical bars).
Lebiasinidae
Max Size
45.0 cm (17.7")
Min Tank
50 L (13 gal)
Min Group
6+
Diet
Omnivore. Fine flakes, brine shrimp nauplii, daphnia, microworms. Very small mouth.
Water Parameters
Temperature
24.0-28.0°C
75-82°F
pH
5.0-7.0
Hardness (dGH)
2.0-10.0
Min Tank Size
50 L
13 gal
About
The Golden Pencilfish is the largest and most colorful member of the genus Nannostomus. It has a dark horizontal stripe and a golden body with reddish highlights. At night it changes its pattern, displaying vertical stripes.
Behavior & Temperament
Peaceful and elegant. Swims horizontally in the midwater. Different nocturnal pattern (vertical bars).
Feeding
Omnivore. Fine flakes, brine shrimp nauplii, daphnia, microworms. Very small mouth.
Breeding
Oviparous. Lays eggs among fine‑leaved plants. Few eggs per spawn.
Care Notes
Soft and acidic water. Dense vegetation. Weak current. Beneficial tannins.
Compatibility
Ideal for peaceful community tanks with small fish. Avoid large or active tankmates.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Nannostomus beckfordi |
|---|---|
| Family | Lebiasinidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 45.0 cm (17.7") |
| Min Tank | 50 L (13 gal) |
| Min Group | 6+ |
| Diet | Omnivore. Fine flakes, brine shrimp nauplii, daphnia, microworms. Very small mouth. |
| Temperament | Peaceful and elegant. Swims horizontally in the midwater. Different nocturnal pattern (vertical bars). |
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