Cenepa Pencilfish Nannostomus sp. Cenepa
£24.00
Cenepa Pencilfish Nannostomus sp. Cenepa
Bulk Offer – 3 for £69.00
Discount will apply at checkout.
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Description
Cenepa Pencilfish Nannostomus sp. Cenepa
Care Guide:
The Cenepa Pencilfish (Nannostomus sp. ‘Cenepa’) is an exceptionally rare and beautiful freshwater fish. Notably, this highly sought-after species originates from the remote Cenepa River basin in Peru. It stands out because of its elegant, slender body and vibrant red coloration that intensifies significantly during courtship. Consequently, it has become a true prize for dedicated nano aquarium enthusiasts across the United Kingdom.
Tank Size and Shoaling Behaviour
In captivity, these diminutive fish grow to a maximum length of roughly 3 to 3.5 centimetres. Consequently, a small group can live comfortably in a moderate nano aquarium. Because they are highly social shoaling animals, you should always keep them in groups of ten or more. Therefore, providing open swimming space alongside dense planting will ensure they display their natural, confident behaviours.
Ideal Aquarium Water Parameters
Maintaining high water quality is highly beneficial for their long-term health and coloration. Because they naturally hail from soft, acidic blackwater streams, they prefer stable, pristine environmental conditions. The optimal water parameters include:
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- Acidity Range: A stable pH between 5.0 and 6.5.
- Water Hardness: Very soft to moderate (1–8 dGH).
- Temperature Range: Kept consistently between 24°C and 28°C.
- Filtration: Efficient but gentle to avoid excessive currents.
Structural Tank Layout and Decor
Furthermore, the physical arrangement of the aquarium must replicate their natural shaded habitats. Incorporating plenty of live plants and natural bogwood is highly recommended. Additionally, adding dried leaf litter, such as Indian almond leaves, will release beneficial tannins into the water. If you use a dark substrate, their red and gold colours will appear significantly more intense.
Dietary Habits and Nutrition
In terms of nutrition, they are micro-predators that feed on tiny invertebrates due to their small mouths. Although they will readily accept high-quality crushed flakes, a varied diet is essential for their overall vitality. Specifically, their feeding routine should incorporate:
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- Nutritious live or frozen baby brineshrimp.
- High-protein frozen daphnia or cyclops.
- Vitamin-enriched micro pellets.
Captive Breeding Behaviour
Finally, breeding this exquisite variety in captivity is an achievable but delicate challenge. They are egg-scatterers, meaning they will release their spawn over fine-leafed plants like Java moss. Following spawning, the adult fish will quickly eat their own eggs if left in the same tank. As a result, breeders must use a separate breeding grid to protect the vulnerable eggs.
Convenient nationwide delivery; you’re only a click away!
Our nationwide delivery service makes it easy to receive your fish directly at your door, anywhere in the UK, for a flat rate of just £30. This convenient service allows you to order up to 10kg of fish, with the assurance that they will arrive in excellent condition.
To make the fishes journey as comfortable as possible we use Oxygen in the fish bags and heat packs in all the boxes of fish we send out.
For your peace of mind we enclose a slip which will explain what to do in the event of a fish not traveling too well.
We use a licensed courier to deliver your fish directly to you door and will be with you by 1pm the next day.
Our delivery days are as follows:
Tuesday for Wednesday delivery
Wednesday for Thursday delivery
Thursday for Friday delivery
Please put your desired delivery day in the Order Notes on the Checkout page.
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