Three-lined pencilfish

Nannostomus eques

Family : Characidae

FishFreshwaterPencilfish

Small elongated fish with three horizontal black lines. Very popular in aquaria for its coloration and peaceful behavior.

Three-lined pencilfish — photo 1 sur 4 — Cinh · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4

Popularity

Community fish

classic in freshwater aquarium

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

South America

Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Nannostomus eques reaches up to 5 cm. Its body is elongated and fusiform with an upward-facing mouth. It has three distinct horizontal black lines on a silvery to golden background. The caudal fin is reddish. It is a surface-dwelling fish often holding an oblique position. It is schooling and must live in groups. It is active and peaceful, ideal for community aquariums. It can be sensitive to water parameters.

Habitat

Region :

Blackwater streams and small rivers, vegetated areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature23–28 °C

pH5.5–7

GH2–10 °dGH

KH1–5 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty

1/5

Diet

Carnivore

Min. tank

40 L

Min. group

Adult size

5 cm

Lifespan

4 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

Egg-scatterer

Care notes

Aquarium of at least 40 liters, well planted with shaded areas. Soft and acidic water (pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-10) at 23-28°C. A lid is recommended. Diet: small insects, worms, brine shrimp, and fine dry food. Compatible with other small peaceful fish. Keep in groups of at least 6. Avoid aggressive or large tankmates. Regular water changes to maintain good quality.

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