Pencil Fish – Two Lined (Nannostomus digrammus) 2cm

Two Lined Pencil Fish – A Vibrant Aussie Gem for Your Aquarium

The Two Lined Pencil Fish, a dazzling freshwater species, lights up tanks with its slender body and bold stripes. Native to Brazil’s Amazon basin, this peaceful fish thrives in groups. Its striking red-edged black lines add flair to any setup. Consequently, it’s perfect for aquarists who love serene, planted aquariums. With proper care, this fish brings elegance and charm.

Size and Lifespan

The Two Lined Pencil Fish grows to 4–5 cm and enjoys a lifespan of 3–4 years. Regular water testing and a varied diet boost their longevity. Additionally, adding plants and driftwood lowers stress, enhancing their vibrant colours. With attentive care, these fish flourish, making them a delightful long-term addition to your aquarium.

Ideal Tank Setup

A 60 L tank suits a small school of these fish. Mimic their natural habitat with fine sand, driftwood, and floating plants for shade. Maintain water at 24–27°C, a pH of 5.5–7.0, and soft to moderate hardness. Furthermore, use gentle filtration to replicate their slow-moving stream environment.

To replicate its natural habitat:

• Fine sand substrate for a natural base
• Driftwood for hiding spots
• Floating plants to create shaded areas
• Gentle water flow with a low-power filter

Compatible Tank Mates

This fish gets along with calm, small species. Avoid aggressive or large fish that might intimidate them. Instead, choose companions that share their peaceful vibe. Suitable tank mates include:

• Small tetras like Neon or Ember Tetras
• Rasboras for similar schooling behaviour
• Corydoras for bottom-dwelling harmony
• Otocinclus for algae control

Diet and Feeding

These omnivores relish a varied diet. Offer high-quality flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp. Additionally, include plant-based options such as spirulina or blanched spinach. Feed small portions twice daily to maintain their health and vibrant hues. This balanced approach ensures they thrive.

Breeding and Behaviour of Two Lined Pencil Fish

Two Lined Pencil Fish scatter eggs on fine-leaved plants in soft, acidic water. Raise the temperature to 26°C and add blackwater extract to encourage spawning. After laying eggs, remove adults to protect the fry, which hatch in 2–3 days. Feed fry infusoria initially, then baby brine shrimp. Moreover, their schooling nature adds lively charm to tanks.

Species Overview

• Species: Nannostomus digrammus
• Common Name: Two-lined Pencil Fish
• Origin: Brazil (Amazon basin)
• Diet: Omnivore
• pH Range: 5.5–7.0
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• Breed Type: Egg scatterer
• Current Size: Approximately 3.5 cm (Grows up to approximately 4–5 cm)
• Max Size: 4–5 cm
• Tank Size: 60 L or more

FAQs

What size tank is ideal for Two Lined Pencil Fish?
A 60 L tank works best for a small school, providing ample swimming space.

Can they live with other fish?
Yes, they coexist well with peaceful species like tetras and Corydoras.

How often should I feed them?
Feed small portions twice daily, including flakes and live foods.

Do they need to be in groups?
Yes, they thrive in schools of six or more for social comfort.

How long do they live?
With proper care, they live 3–4 years, sometimes longer.

Add a Two Lined Pencil Fish to Your Aquarium Today!

Bring the Two Lined Pencil Fish to your tank for a splash of colour and calm schooling behaviour. Its vivid stripes and gentle nature make it ideal for planted setups. Therefore, order this Aussie gem today and elevate your aquarium’s charm!