Golden Beckford Pencil Fish

Beckford's Golden Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi)

The Beckford's Golden Pencilfish is a peaceful and elegant schooling species prized for its shimmering gold coloration, subtle red highlights, and graceful swimming behavior. Native to the slow-moving streams and tributaries of the Amazon basin, these slender fish add constant movement and natural beauty to planted community aquariums.

Best kept in groups of six or more, Beckford's Golden Pencilfish display their most vibrant colors and natural social behaviors when housed in larger schools. Their calm temperament makes them excellent companions for other small, peaceful fish such as tetras, rasboras, dwarf corydoras, and small apistogrammas.

A well-planted aquarium with subdued lighting, driftwood, and open swimming areas will help these fish feel secure and encourage their best coloration. They readily accept high-quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods, and live foods.

Quick Facts:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Adult Size: 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm)
• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Diet: Omnivore
• Schooling: Yes, keep in groups of 6 or more

A fantastic choice for planted aquariums, the Beckford's Golden Pencilfish offers subtle beauty, active schooling behavior, and excellent compatibility with a wide variety of community fish.