Author: Günther, 1872
FBname: Golden pencilfish
Remark: The most recent distributional records were published by Weitzman & Weitzman (1982: Fig. 229). Most recent systematic description by Weitzman (1966). Commonly exported as an aquarium fish since 1910, Stansch (1914). The courtship and other behavior was studied in detail by Caplan & Dunham (1978) and Kuenzer (1982). Probably introduced into rio Jaquraipe, east of Salvador, Bahia Brazil, Géry (1977) and definitely introduced into baía de Guanabara, Rio de Janeiro, Bizerril & Lima (2001). This species is commonly exported as an aquarium fish from Peru and Guyana.
Comments: Inhabits small rivers with little current and in swamps where they are very common.  Forms groups where the males dominate to defend their territory.  Is highly appreciated by aquarists (Ref. 12225).  Feeds on worms, crustaceans and insects (Ref. 7020).  Aquarium keeping:  in groups of 5 or more individuals; minimum aquarium size 60 cm (Ref. 51539).