Nannostomus sp. ‘Super Red Cenepa’

Nannostomus sp. ‘Super Red Cenepa’ is a stunning freshwater pencilfish that brings a splash of color and graceful movement to planted aquariums. Known in the hobby as the Coral Pencil, this slender, peaceful species thrives in calm community setups and shines brightest in well-planted tanks with gentle filtration.

Vibrant color and natural charm

What elevates the Super Red Cenepa above other small schooling fish is its vivid red body that glides along a sleek, pencil-thin profile. In properly lit aquariums, the red coloration becomes a striking focal point, especially when kept in groups. Juveniles start with softer tones, maturing into a deeper, more uniform red as they settle into stable water and feeding routines.

Care that fits real-world setups

• Size and schooling: Adults typically reach about 1.5–2.5 cm (roughly 0.6–1 inch). They are happiest in small schools of 6–8, weaving through stems and leaves with a calm, deliberate cadence. A cohesive group enhances color display and reduces stress during tank-introductions.
• Tank and water: Prefers soft to moderately hard water with a pH around 6.0–7.5 and a temperature range of 24–28 C (75–82 F). Moderate, diffuse lighting helps bring out their color, while dense planting and gentle currents mimic their Cenepa River origin and provide shelter for juveniles.
• Diet: As opportunistic omnivores, they thrive on tiny live foods (microworms, baby brine shrimp), frozen options (daphnia), and high-quality micro-pellets or flakes. They’ll also graze on biofilm, so a balanced, varied diet supports vivid coloration and healthy growth.
• Compatibility: Peaceful and non-territorial, they pair well with other small, placid fish such as nano rasboras, dwarf gouramis, shrimp, and other micro-fauna-focused inhabitants. Avoid aggressive tankmates that chase or nip fins.
• Breeding vibes: If you’re aiming to breed, provide a very soft, acidic environment and monitor water changes carefully. Eggs often attach to plant leaves or spawning mops; remove adults after spawning to protect eggs and fry, which will need tiny foods in their early days.

Why this is the right pick for your aquarium

Unlike many red fish, the Nannostomus sp. ‘Super Red Cenepa’ combines a diminutive size with a dramatic color display that remains visible even in moderately populated planted tanks. Its slender body and methodical swimming create a constant sense of movement without crowding out other species. It’s an excellent choice for beginners exploring small-group care as well as seasoned aquarists enhancing a lush, biodiverse community tank.

Practical tips for best results

• Keep a stable parameter profile: avoid sudden temperature swings or abrupt pH changes to protect color intensity and overall health.
• Maintain regular, modest water changes (weekly 10–20%) to preserve clear water and prevent stress during introductions of new tank mates.
• Provide plenty of plants, driftwood, and soft trailing growth to create shade and hunting lanes, which helps reduce stress and showcases their color.
• Avoid copper-based medications, which can harm sensitive pencilfish and their fry.

Embrace the Coral Pencil experience with Nannostomus sp. ‘Super Red Cenepa’ and invite a graceful, red-toned presence to your aquascape—one that rewards patient care with lively activity and a vivid color display that truly stands out.