Beckford’s Pencilfish: Fish Species Profile

Species Overview

The Beckford’s Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi), also known as the Golden Pencilfish, is a slender, peaceful freshwater species native to South America. Renowned for its distinctive horizontal stripes and vibrant coloration, it is a popular choice among aquarists seeking an active and visually appealing addition to their community tanks.

• Common Names: Beckford’s Pencilfish, Golden Pencilfish
• Scientific Name: Nannostomus beckfordi
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 3–5 years

Characteristics

• Family: Lebiasinidae
• Origin: South America (Brazil, Guyana, Suriname)
• Social: Peaceful schooling fish
• Tank Level: Mid to upper water levels
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Diet: Omnivore
• Breeding: Egg layer
• Care Level: Easy
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: 5–20 dGH
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

Origin and Distribution

Beckford’s Pencilfish are indigenous to the slow-moving rivers and swamps of Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname. They inhabit densely vegetated areas with soft, acidic waters, providing ample cover and feeding opportunities.

Colors and Markings

This species features a slender, elongated body with a prominent horizontal black stripe running from the snout to the tail. Above this stripe, a golden or reddish hue adds to their striking appearance. Males often display more intense coloration, especially during breeding periods.

Tankmates

Beckford’s Pencilfish are peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Small Tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras Catfish
• Dwarf Gouramis
• Other small, peaceful fish

It’s advisable to keep them in groups of at least six to promote natural schooling behavior and reduce stress.

Habitat and Care

To replicate their natural environment:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended to accommodate a small school and provide ample swimming space.
• Substrate: Use a dark substrate to enhance their coloration.
• Plants: Incorporate live plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and floating species to provide cover and mimic their natural habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal to showcase their features without causing stress.
• Filtration: Ensure efficient filtration to maintain water quality, as they are sensitive to poor conditions.

Regular water changes and monitoring of parameters are essential to keep them healthy.

Diet and Feeding

Beckford’s Pencilfish are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet. Offer them:

• High-quality flake or pellet food
• Live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
• Occasional vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based flakes

Feed them small amounts 2–3 times daily, ensuring they consume all the food within a few minutes.

Gender Differences

Males are typically more slender with brighter red coloration on their fins, while females are rounder, especially when carrying eggs. The differences are subtle and may require close observation to distinguish.

Breeding

Breeding Beckford’s Pencilfish in captivity is relatively straightforward:

• Breeding Tank: Set up a separate tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops.
• Conditioning: Feed breeding pairs a high-protein diet of live and frozen foods to encourage spawning.
• Spawning: After spawning, remove adults to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Eggs typically hatch within 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming a few days later. Feed fry infusoria or commercially available fry food until they are large enough to accept baby brine shrimp.

Further Research

For more information on similar species and care techniques, consider exploring:

• Coral Red Pencilfish (Nannostomus mortenthaleri)
• Dwarf Pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus)
• Three-lined Pencilfish (Nannostomus trifasciatus)

FAQ

How many Beckford’s Pencilfish should I keep together?
It’s best to keep them in groups of at least six individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior.

Are Beckford’s Pencilfish suitable for beginners?
Yes, their hardy nature and peaceful temperament make them suitable for novice aquarists.

What is the ideal tank setup for Beckford’s Pencilfish?
A well-planted tank with ample swimming space, moderate lighting, and stable water parameters closely mimics their natural habitat and helps them thrive.

This profile provides essential information for successfully keeping and enjoying Beckford’s Pencilfish in your aquarium.