RED PENCIL FISH (Nannostomus beckfordi)

Red Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) – Description & Care Guide

Description

The Red Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a peaceful and elegant South American schooling fish known for its slender body, warm red to bronze coloration, and subtle black lateral line. Males often develop deeper red tones and more extended finnage, especially when kept in groups or well-planted aquariums.

This species naturally inhabits slow-moving blackwater streams and flooded forest areas, where soft lighting and dense vegetation help bring out their best colours. Their calm personality and small size make them an excellent choice for peaceful community aquariums.

Adult Size

• Approximately 4–5 cm (1.5–2 inches)

Temperament

• Very peaceful

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

• Ideal for calm community tanks

Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 10–15 gallons

• Aquascape: Plants, driftwood, and shaded areas

• Floating plants help reduce stress and improve colour

• Gentle filtration and low to moderate flow preferred

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.5

• Soft to moderately hard water

• Stable, clean water is important for long-term health

Diet

Red Pencilfish are micro-predators that do best with a varied diet:

• High-quality micro pellets or crushed flakes

• Frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and cyclops

• Live foods will enhance colour and breeding behaviour

They naturally feed near the surface and mid-water.

Tankmates

Great companions include:

• Small tetras

• Corydoras

• Apistogramma and other dwarf cichlids

• Peaceful rasboras

• Small plecos

Avoid aggressive or very fast-moving fish that may outcompete them at feeding time.

Additional Notes

• Males may spar lightly but rarely cause harm.

• Colours intensify in planted, slightly dim environments.

• Excellent choice for natural South American biotope aquariums.