Beckford's Pencilfish
✅ Level: Easy — a graceful pencilfish for a peaceful community aquarium.
Nannostomus Beckfordi, also known as Beckford's Pencilfish, is a small, slender pencilfish with calm, characteristic swimming behavior. As a schooling fish, it feels most comfortable in a group, where its calm swimming style is best showcased.
🐠 Animal Specifications
| Max. length | ±6 cm |
| Temperature | 22–28°C |
| pH | 5.5–8.0 |
| Min. tank length | 60 cm |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Min. school size | 6 pieces |
| Origin | South America |
| Family | Lebiasinidae |
| Other name | Beckford's Pencilfish |
| Difficulty | ⭐ Easy |
🏪 Pickup & Warranty
- Available for pickup only at our store in Heinkenszand — this animal is not shipped
- Feel free to inspect the fish carefully in the store upon pickup
- Upon pickup, feel free to ask for advice on care or the composition of your aquarium
✂️ Care
Keep in a school of at least 6 in a peaceful, well-planted aquarium. Pencilfish often swim at an upward angle — this characteristic swimming behavior is completely normal.
🐠 Combination Tip
Peaceful and suitable for combining with other small, calm community fish. Avoid busy aquariums with fast, dominant species.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this fish swim at an upward angle?
This angled swimming behavior is characteristic of pencilfish and completely normal — no cause for concern.
What is the minimum number of specimens I should buy?
At least 6 pieces — as a schooling fish, it feels insecure in groups that are too small, which can cause stress.
Is this fish suitable for a community aquarium?
Yes, peaceful and suitable for combining with other small, calm species.
Do you have another question? Feel free to visit the store — we are happy to help you make the right choice for your aquarium.
Why Aquarium Plant Shop?
- Many types of aquarium fish in stock.
- Pick up in store is possible 6 days a week.
- Livestock will not be shipped.
