"Discover the beauty of Nannostomus sp. 'Rio Amaya' in your aquarium. Learn about its care, tank mates, and stunning colors."

- Water Conditions: 'Rio Amaya' pencilfish thrive in soft to moderately hard water conditions. Maintain a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) and a slightly acidic to neutral pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. Good water filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain optimal water quality.

- Tank Size and Setup: Provide a well-planted aquarium with ample swimming space for 'Rio Amaya' pencilfish. A tank size of 10 gallons (38 liters) or larger is suitable for a small group of these fish. Incorporate floating plants and subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat. Driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter can be added to create hiding spots and replicate their preferred environment.

- Tank Mates: 'Rio Amaya' pencilfish are peaceful and suitable for community aquariums. They can coexist with other peaceful fish species, such as tetras, rasboras, small corydoras catfish, and dwarf shrimp. Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish that may stress or harm them.

- Feeding Habit: These pencilfish are omnivorous and have a preference for small live or frozen foods. They eagerly consume insects, insect larvae, small crustaceans, and microorganisms. In the aquarium, they readily accept high-quality dry foods, such as flakes or micro-pellets, supplemented with live or frozen options like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. A varied diet helps ensure their nutritional needs are met.

- Care and Behavior: Nannostomus sp. 'Rio Amaya' requires attentive care to thrive. They prefer a well-maintained aquarium with stable water conditions. Provide a peaceful environment and avoid housing them with aggressive or boisterous tank mates. Regular water changes, maintaining proper water parameters, and monitoring water quality are crucial for their well-being.

- Breeding: Breeding 'Rio Amaya' pencilfish can be challenging. They are egg scatterers and exhibit external fertilization. To encourage breeding, provide dense vegetation, floating plants, and spawning mops as potential egg deposition sites. Separate breeding pairs into a dedicated breeding tank with suitable water conditions and provide them with a diet rich in live or frozen foods. Remove adults after spawning to protect the eggs and fry.

In conclusion, Nannostomus sp. 'Rio Amaya' is a captivating fish species that can enhance the beauty of your aquarium. With their vibrant colors, peaceful nature, and graceful movements, they bring a sense of tranquility to any aquatic setup. By providing appropriate water conditions, suitable tank mates, and a varied diet, you can ensure the health and vitality of these pencilfish in your aquarium.