Can Beckford's Pencilfish and Motoro Stingray Live Together?

Beckford's Pencilfish is a peaceful species (2/10), while Motoro Stingray is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Motoro Stingray may occasionally assert dominance over Beckford's Pencilfish.

In terms of spatial distribution, Beckford's Pencilfish prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Motoro Stingray occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Beckford's Pencilfish is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 2–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Beckford's Pencilfish and Motoro Stingray together, plan for an aquarium of at least 900 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Beckford's Pencilfish prefers Low (Still Water) flow while Motoro Stingray needs High (River/Stream) flow. Consider positioning filter outlets and using baffles to create zones of different current intensity within the same tank.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Motoro Stingray is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Beckford's Pencilfish.