Size
Gains a little more than 1 inch
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
This fish is one of the more brilliant ones of the genus, with a vibrant coral red body and fins. The fish’s body is covered with horizontal black stripes that stand out clearly against this coloring. It was once regarded as a Nannostomus marginatus subspecies, but it is now recognised as a distinct species in its own right. Anal fins in men of reproductive age are stronger.
Keeping as a Pet
- Care of Aquariums
As long as the water is kept clean, coral red pencilfish are moderately hardy and not very challenging to care for. Regular water changes are recommended, especially if the tank is heavily filled. Every other week, the tank water should be replaced by at least 25 to 50 percent.
Water Changes: Every two weeks
- Setup of an aquarium
Compared to many other tetras, the Coral Red Pencilfish is more challenging to maintain. For them to thrive, the water should be kept soft and acidic. Since this blackwater native is extremely sensitive to harsher, more alkaline water, peat filtering is advised. These fish require a tank that is at least 20 gallons in size and should be kept in groups of six or more. They will primarily swim and eat at the water’s surface. Because this fish is likely to jump if given the chance, the tank needs to be properly secured.
To highlight the best colors of this fish, the aquarium should be subdued with a dark substrate. To assist dim the light, the aquarium should also be densely planted, with some floating plants near the surface. The fact that they consume at the surface necessitates the provision of certain clear spaces in addition to some floating plants, which they will love. These fish will have many places to hide thanks to the decor made of driftwood.
- They need at least a 15 gallon long or 20 gallon aquarium. Minimum Tank Size: 15 gal (57 L).
- Appropriate for Nano Tank: Yes
- Any Substrate Type
- Low-intensity, subtle lighting is required.
- The Coral Red Pencilfish will swim in most of the aquarium’s water areas.
- Water Movement: Moderate
- Water Region: All.
- Water Conditions
Inhabits marshy areas, slow-moving streams, tributaries, and rivers, particularly those that have a lot of aquatic vegetation, submerged trees, and decomposing organic debris. It thrives in water that is 5.8 to 7.0 pH and between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Feeding
The Red Arc Pencilfish eats a variety of foods. Although they mostly consume zooplankton and other small invertebrates in the environment, they will typically consume a variety of meals in an aquarium. This fish will consume most prepared fish foods, including small pellets, freeze-dried foods, and the majority of flakes foods because it is not a finicky eater. Live or frozen brine shrimp or frozen blood worms should be fed on occasion to maintain them looking their best. Keep in mind that because of their tiny jaws, food must be crushed or minced in order for them to consume it.
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