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Freshwater fishZipper Pencilfish
Zipper Pencilfish
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The zipper pencilfish is also known as the diptail pencil fish and hockey stick pencil. Oh - it is also called the rocket pencilfish. Each name fits. Half the time the zipper pencil is pointing up like he is ready to take off like a rocket. Of course, the other half of the time his head is pointed down like he is going for a crash landing. In a school, these fish hover at alternating 45 degrees, creating the famous zipper pattern. We recommend the purchase of at least six to see this visual effect!
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Nannostomus unifasciatus |
| Origin | Colombia and the Amazon basin |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Adult Size | Up to 2" |
| Lifespan | 5–6 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (tiny foods) |
| Water Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.0 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. ¾" |
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: Zipper pencilfish swim at an angle, and a group tilted in different directions creates their famous "zipper" look.
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