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The peaceful and beautifully-colored Red Beckford's Pencilfish is one of the most superb freshwater nano fish!

The Red Beckford's Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi var. "Red") is a very sought-after schooling community fish. Its small size, vibrant coloration, and relative rarity have made it one of the most desirable freshwater nano and planted aquarium fish.

The Red Beckford's Pencilfish typically occupies the top and middle level of the water column, although it can often be seen swimming and feeding in the middle and bottom levels as well. It is safe with other peaceful, small fish. Adult dwarf shrimp are generally safe as well, but adult Red Beckford's Pencilfish may eat small dwarf shrimp and their fry. Larger, peaceful invertebrates can also make good tankmates. Red Beckford's Pencilfish must be kept in schools of 6 or more. Since they are tank-bred, Red Beckford's Pencilfish are very adaptable, but their natural habitat contains soft, acidic water rich in tannins and leaf litter.

While not a picky eater, the Red Beckford's Pencilfish will thrive and remain very colorful on a varied diet of meaty foods. High-quality flake food, pellets, and frozen or freeze-dried meaty foods will all be readily accepted.

What We Like About This Fish:

Vivid red coloration and black striping and very small size
Peaceful disposition with fish and peaceful invertebrates
Very active and noticeable schooling fish in any aquarium
Excellent for inhabiting the top of the aquarium

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

Temperature: 64° - 82° F (18° - 27.7° C)
pH: 5.0 - 8.0 (more acidic water is preferable)
KH: 4 - 8 dKH
Minimum tank size: 10 gallons

CARE GUIDELINES:

Diet: Micropredator. Will easily accept high quality dry and frozen foods and requires a varied diet.
Social behavior: Peaceful, schooling/shoaling.
Origin: Tank-bred, but indigenous to South America
Average adult size: 1.2 - 1.4 inches (3 - 3.5 cm), possibly larger
Average purchase size: 1/2 - 1 inch (1.3 - 2.5 cm)

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Red Beckford's Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi var. "Red"), Tank-Bred

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