Beckford's Red Pencilfish

🐠 Beckford’s Red Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi)

Common Names: Beckford’s Pencilfish, Red Pencilfish
Origin: South America (Guyana, Suriname, Brazil)
Adult Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
Lifespan: 3–5 years

🔹 Temperament & Behavior

• Peaceful, schooling species—best in groups of 8–10+.
• Males develop brighter red and gold with extended fins during displays.
• Active mid–upper level swimmers; add plants and open swimming areas.

🔹 Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Water Parameters:
• Temp: 72–82 °F (22–28 °C)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: 2–10 dGH
• Setup: Heavily planted with driftwood, leaf litter, and subdued lighting to bring out natural colors.

🔹 Tankmates

• Peaceful community fish: small rasboras, tetras, corydoras, apistogrammas.
• Avoid larger or aggressive fish that may nip at fins or outcompete for food.

🔹 Diet

• Omnivore with preference for small live and frozen foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae).
• Will also accept quality micro-pellets and fine flakes.

🔹 Breeding

• Egg scatterers among plants or fine-leaved moss.
• No parental care—remove adults if fry are to survive.
• Fry need infusoria/very fine foods initially.

✨ Fun fact: When males are excited or during courtship, Beckford’s Red Pencilfish tilt their bodies at an angle—sometimes nearly vertical—showing off their bright red fins like little glowing “pencils” in the water.