Harrison's Pencilfish

Nannostomus harrisoni is an attractive pencilfish from the Demerara River system in Guyana, displaying a rich reddish-brown body with a bold, clearly defined black lateral stripe and vivid red coloration in the lower lobe of the caudal fin and adjacent fins. It is not as commonly available as other pencilfish but is notably hardier than many soft-water blackwater specialists, making it manageable for the intermediate aquarist who can maintain soft, slightly acidic conditions. Best kept in groups in a well-planted, shaded aquarium.

House in groups of at least 6 in a well-planted aquarium (minimum 40 L) with shaded areas, driftwood, and floating plants. Maintain soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5.0–6.8, GH 1–8) at 23–27°C. Feed fine omnivore foods: micro-pellets, crushed flake, Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, and micro worms. Keep with small, peaceful community species of similar size. Avoid strong water flow.