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Hockeystick Pencilfish - Nannostomus eques : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Hockeystick Pencilfish (Nannostomus eques) is a serene, amiable, and shy species, which, due to its small size and timidity, may not be the perfect fit for a community tank. Despite their reserved nature, these Pencilfish are impressively swift swimmers, displaying a more passive demeanor during daylight hours and becoming active at night. Their unique swimming style is marked by a diagonal orientation, with their head tilted upward. Ideally, these fish should be kept in groups of at least 10, with larger groups preferred when possible. Dominant males may occasionally quarrel, but ensuring ample hiding places and visual barriers can minimize any harm. Having a higher ratio of females to males can also help alleviate minor aggression-related issues. In their natural environment, these fish are found alongside numerous small characins, including species from the Copella, Hemigrammus, Hyphessobrycon, and Paracheirodon genera. Dwarf Cichlids from the Apistogramma or Mikrogeophagus genera can make excellent tankmates, as well as Corydoras Catfish and small loricariids. Hockeystick Pencilfish can be quite timid, so choose tankmates carefully to prevent them from hiding or refusing to feed due to boisterous companions. If you are flexible about creating an exact biotope, smaller Rasbora and Boraras species from Asia would get along well with the Pencilfish, as would Kuhli Loaches. A well-established aquarium with a dark substrate and background, as well as abundant plant cover—both rooted and floating—is essential for these peaceful mid-to-top-dwelling fish to feel secure. Efficient filtration with gentle water movement is recommended. The Hockeystick Pencilfish is a captivating species, characterized by its small size, slender and elongated body. Adorning their sides is a striking brown lateral stripe that extends from the nose to the caudal-fin base. Complementing this feature is a delicate silver-grey stripe situated above the dark brown line. Intriguingly, each body scale exhibits a dark brown spot, with the exception of those that form part of the silver stripe.Hockeystick Pencilfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of Hockeystick Pencilfish is a straightforward process. Males typically exhibit more vibrant coloration and a slimmer physique compared to females. Additionally, males possess an elongated anal fin, which often features a white edge.Quick Facts
Scientific Name | Nannostomus eques |
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Year Described | 1876 |
Other Names | Rocket Pencilfish, Diptail Pencilfish, Brown Pencilfish |
Classification | Actinopterygii |
Order | Characiformes |
Family | Lebiasinidae |
Genus | Nannostomus |
Origins | Guyana Venezuela Colombia Peru Brazil |
Max Size | 5 cm |
Temperament | Peaceful |
Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
Difficulty | Beginner |
Shoaling | Yes |
Best kept as | Groups 10+ |
Diet | Omnivore |
Reproduction | Egg-Layer |
Lifespan | up to 5 year |
Water Parameters
Water Type | Freshwater |
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PH | 4.5 - 7.5 |
GH | 3 - 10 |
KH | |
TDS | 18 - 179 |
℉ | 73 - 82 |
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℃ | 22.8 - 27.8 |