Aquaria
Short-bodied Pencilfish

Short-bodied Pencilfish

NameShort-bodied Pencilfish
Scientific NamePetulanos brevior
Common NamesShort-bodied Pencilfish, Striped Pencilfish
FamilyAnostomidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)4
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)73-82
pH Range5.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesSmall Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras Catfish, Dwarf Cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma), Other Pencilfish species, Otocinclus Catfish

Description

The Short-bodied Pencilfish is a slender, torpedo-shaped fish characterized by prominent horizontal black and yellow/gold stripes. This peaceful, schooling species thrives in well-planted aquariums with stable water conditions. It is an active swimmer that prefers to be kept in groups of six or more.

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