More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 60 litres / 15.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.5cm / 1.38inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 4.5-7.5 |
General Description
The Hockeystick Pencilfish, scientifically known as Nannostomus Eques, has an interesting oblique swimming style and is popular in aquariums. It features a brown lateral stripe extending from the snout to the caudal-fin base, with a silver-grey stripe above it and dark brown spots on each body scale except those forming part of the silver stripe. Adipose fins are not consistently present.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, the Hockeystick Pencilfish requires a heavily planted aquarium with a dark substrate and patches of floating vegetation. Driftwood branches and dried leaf litter should also be added to encourage microbe colonies. The fish tend to congregate around floating vegetation with their bodies angled towards the surface. Gentle filtration is recommended, with an air-powered sponge-style unit being suitable for most setups.
Behaviour
This species is very peaceful but may not thrive in a community tank due to its small size and timid nature. It is best kept with similarly-sized, peaceful characids, smaller callichthyid or loricariid catfish, and as a dither fish for Apistogramma spp. and other dwarf cichlids. They exhibit gregarious behavior and thrive in groups of 10 or more.
Feeding and Diet
The Hockeystick Pencilfish is a micropredator, feeding on tiny invertebrates and zooplankton in the wild. In aquariums, they accept dried foods but should also be offered daily meals of small live and frozen fare such as Artemia nauplii, Moina, and grindal worms.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction in aquaria is rare but possible. Eggs are deposited in single batches on the underside of plant leaves. Adult males are more colorful, slimmer, and have an enlarged anal fin compared to females. To increase fry yield, a controlled approach with well-conditioned adults and separate breeding containers is recommended.
Habitat and Distribution
Found in sluggish tributaries, small rivers, and swampy zones with dense aquatic vegetation, submerged woody structures, and leaf litter, the Hockeystick Pencilfish inhabits areas of flooded forests and floodplain lakes in blackwater regions. They are distributed across the central and upper Amazon region in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, as well as in rivers in Venezuela, Colombia, and Guyana.