[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Characoids – Two-lined Pencilfish (Nannostomus bifasciatus)

Although this species lacks the red body coloration of prime N. beckfordi (Golden Pencilfish) specimens, it is nevertheless beautifully patterned with a broad, body-long, black band along the midline and a considerably narrower one above. This species lacks an adipose fin.

Family

• Lebiasmidae

Subfamily

• Pyrrhulininae

Distribution

• Sunname and Guyana.

Size

• Up to 2in (5cm).

Behavior

• Peaceful shoaler, somewhat more timid than N. beckfordi; should not be kept with lively tankmates.

Diet

• Most small foods accepted, particularly livefoods.

Aquarium

• Thickly planted and with subdued lighting. Soft, slightly acid, nitrate- free water preferred (any changes in conditions must be carried out gradually), as is tannin-stained water. Temperature range: 73-81 F (23-27C).

Breeding

• Subdued lighting, soft, acid water, and fine- leaved vegetation required. Water temperature should be maintained at around 86 F (30 C). Eggs are scattered among the vegetation and may be eaten by the spawners. Hatching takes 1-3 days.