"Really Red Pencilfish" "Rio Amaya" "Peru"
Nannostomus sp.

Description

A newly discovered and yet to be described species, the Rio Amaya Really Red Pencilfish is a rare addition to your aquarium.

General Care:
– Pencilfish are small, peaceful freshwater fish found in South America.
– They are shoaling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 individuals to reduce stress and promote natural behavior.
– Provide a well-maintained and stable aquarium environment for their optimal health and well-being.

Tank Requirements:
– Tank size: A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for a small group of Pencilfish.
– Filtration: Use a reliable filter to maintain water quality and provide gentle water flow.
– Water parameters: Temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH around 5.5-7.5, and hardness between 2-10 dGH.
– Substrate: Use fine gravel or sand as the substrate.
– Provide plenty of plants, floating vegetation, and open swimming spaces.
– Use driftwood and leaf litter to mimic their natural habitat and provide hiding spots.
– Dim lighting can help enhance their colors and reduce stress.

Feeding:
– Pencilfish are mainly omnivores and will accept a variety of foods.
– Offer high-quality flakes or pellets as their staple diet.
– Supplement their diet with small live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and micro worms.

Tankmates:
– Pencilfish are peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish.
– Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive species that may stress or prey on them.

Water Maintenance:
– Perform regular water changes (20-25% weekly) to maintain water quality and remove waste.
– Keep the water well-filtered to ensure good water circulation.

Healthcare:
– Monitor water parameters regularly using test kits to ensure optimal conditions.
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent disease transmission.

Breeding:
– Breeding Pencilfish in captivity is possible with proper care and conditions.
– Provide a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants for potential spawning.

Observation and Enjoyment:
– Spend time observing and enjoying the natural beauty and behavior of Pencilfish.
– Create a peaceful and well-maintained environment to ensure their well-being.

Please note that this is a general care sheet for the genus Nannostomus, and specific care requirements may vary depending on the exact species within the genus. Always research the specific species you are interested in to ensure you are providing the best care for your Pencilfish.

NAN102A7