Threestripe pencilfish - Nannostomus trifasciatus

Scientific name: Nannostomus trifasciatus

Common name: Threestripe pencilfish

Family: Lebiasinidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.9 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 7°N (0 - 125ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 29 °C (73.4 - 84.2°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Threestripe pencilfish only have small mouths and are surface feeders so use a quality flake that is slightly crushed for the staple diet. They should also be given treats of daphnia and newly hatched brine shrimp.

Origin

South America; Threestripe pencilfish are to be found in Peru, Bolivia, Brazil and Guyana.

Sexing

Males display a brighter colouration and are slimmer than the females.

Breeding

Use subdued lighting, with java moss or spawning mops for the fish to use as spawning sites. The fish are group spawners so add a few of each sex and once spawning is complete, remove the parents to prevent them from eating the eggs. 24-36 hours later the eggs should hatch and a few days after this the fry should be free swimming. Feed them on Infusoria until they are large enough to accept newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Nannostomus trifasciatus is 5 years.

Short description

Nannostomus trifasciatus are a peaceful species that should only be housed with other peaceful species. It is best kept in groups of at least 6 specimens and makes a great addition to a community tank.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.