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Freshwater fishRed Beckford Pencilfish (School of 6)
Red Beckford Pencilfish (School of 6)
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Unlike writing utensils, Beckford Pencilfish are schoolers and need a few colleagues to swim with to keep a low stress level. Otherwise, they are just like pencils.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Nannostomus beckfordi |
| Origin | Northern South America |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 2" |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (tiny foods) |
| Water Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Sold as a school of 6 |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 1" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Give them a planted tank with floating plants, gentle filtration and a lid, since they can jump. Soft, slightly acidic water brings out their best color.
Feeding: Feed crushed flake or micro pellets once or twice a day, only as much as they eat in a couple of minutes. They also enjoy frozen brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Pencilfish are shy and peaceful, so keep them with other small, gentle fish such as small tetras, rasboras, pygmy corydoras and shrimp.
Good to know: Red beckford pencilfish show the most red when they are settled in a planted tank. At night their pattern changes to a blotchy "night" look, which is normal.
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