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Slender, subtle, and surprisingly elegant, the Two-lined Pencilfish (Nannostomus digrammus) is a peaceful nano schooling species perfect for blackwater and planted aquariums. Named for the two distinct horizontal stripes running the length of its body, this species offers understated beauty and shoaling behaviour that brings dynamic motion and harmony to a calm tank.
Often found in slow-moving Amazonian tributaries, this delicate fish thrives in warm, soft, and tannin-rich waters where floating plants and subdued lighting replicate their natural environment. Though shy when first introduced, groups of Pencilfish become confident and active in well-maintained aquaria with like-minded peaceful tankmates.
Species: Nannostomus digrammus
Common Names: Two-lined Pencilfish, Double-lined Pencilfish
Origin: South America – Brazil, particularly the Amazon Basin
Light Requirements: Low to moderate – prefers dim or diffuse lighting
Diet: Micro-predator – enjoys baby brine shrimp, daphnia, microworms, high-quality crushed flakes, and small frozen foods
Maximum Size: 3.5–4.5 cm
Temperament: Peaceful and shy; becomes confident in schools
Care Level: Intermediate
Aquarium Setup:
Best kept in mature, low-flow aquariums of 40 litres or more. Ideal for biotope or blackwater tanks with botanicals, floating plants, and driftwood. The subdued lighting helps bring out their colouration and natural behaviour. As mid-to-upper level swimmers, they pair well with bottom dwellers like Corydoras and avoid conflict with other peaceful species. Always keep in schools of 6 or more for wellbeing and visual impact.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: Soft – ideally under 6 dGH
Growth and Maintenance:
Two-lined Pencilfish are generally hardy once established, but they do not tolerate large swings in water parameters or boisterous tankmates. Frequent small water changes and clean, well-filtered conditions are essential. As surface feeders, ensure that food items are small and slow-sinking. Their small size makes them ideal for nano tanks, but they shine most in species-only or carefully curated community setups.
Care Tips:
✔ Always keep in groups of 6+ to reduce stress and increase activity
✔ Avoid fast-moving or aggressive tankmates
✔ Use floating plants or tannins to diffuse light and mimic natural conditions
✔ Feed small live/frozen foods for health and breeding potential
✔ Cover the tank—pencilfish are jumpers
Compatibility:
Pairs well with other peaceful community fish like pygmy corydoras, small rasboras, otocinclus, and dwarf gouramis. Best avoided in tanks with large tetras or fin-nippers. Safe with shrimp and plant species.
Availability:
Occasionally available in the Australian aquarium trade. Generally sold in small groups or as part of nano fish assortments. Enquire ahead to ensure group purchasing.