Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Unlike other pencilfish, males exhibit extreme territorial aggression towards one another. They will fight relentlessly in cramped quarters without sufficient visual barriers. Towards other species, however, they remain peaceful and completely harmless.

Diet

Omnivore

They are micro-predators that eagerly accept small, high-quality meaty foods. Frozen bloodworms, daphnia, and high-protein micro-pellets are excellent dietary staples. A varied, rich diet is absolutely essential for maintaining their stunning crimson coloration.

Sex ratio

Specific M:F ratio

A ratio of one male to three or more females is strongly recommended. Males are highly territorial and will fiercely attack other males without adequate space. In small tanks, keeping only a single male is the safest approach.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Feed them small portions two times a day to maintain their intense energy levels. They are active feeders but their small mouths require appropriately sized foods. Ensure that less aggressive females get their fair share during feeding time.

Bioload

The Coral Red Pencilfish produces a low bioload, similar to other small characins. Despite their vibrant colors, their biological footprint is easily managed by standard filtration. Excellent water quality is, however, required to keep them healthy and colorful.

Flow

Stagnant

They prefer slow to moderate water movement, avoiding fast, turbulent currents. Gentle flow allows them to hover and establish their territories naturally. Baffled filter returns or sponge filters are ideal for creating a calm environment.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding them is challenging and requires precise soft, acidic water parameters. They are egg scatterers that hide their eggs among dense clumps of moss. Adults are notorious egg eaters and must be removed promptly after spawning.

Compatibility & tankmates

While peaceful towards other species, males are incredibly aggressive towards each other. They should be kept in a heavily planted tank if multiple males are present. Good tank mates include peaceful bottom dwellers and small, fast-moving tetras.

Tank level

Top/Middle

They are highly active in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium. Males will enthusiastically patrol their chosen territories among the plant leaves. They rarely drop to the bottom substrate during their normal daily activities.