Coral Red Pencilfish

The coral red pencilfish is a Peruvian species described in 2001. The body and fins of mature males take on an intense coral red; the dark horizontal lines can be made out within this color. Females are paler and carry two distinct dark lines. It is regarded as the most colorful of the pencilfish; its colors are at their best in a mature, planted, dimly lit aquarium.

• At least 54 liters for a group of 6–10.
• 23–27°C, pH 5–6.5, soft water.
• Dense plants, roots, dried leaves and floating plants.
• It can jump; a lid is required.

Its mouth is small. Fine flakes, micro granules, frozen cyclops, daphnia and newly hatched brine shrimp are suitable. Live foods noticeably intensify the males' color. Feed small amounts 1–2 times a day.

Peaceful, but males may spar over territory among themselves; visual barriers and a female-heavy group reduce this tension. It does not harm shrimp.

Good companions: small tetras, micro rasboras, pygmy corydoras, otocinclus, dwarf cichlids, shrimp.

Avoid: fast and greedy species, fin nippers, large fish.