Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The dwarf pencilfish is a small pencilfish of the family Lebiasinidae from northern South America. The species grows to only about 3 cm and has an elongate, pencil-shaped body with three black lengthwise bands, alternating with gold and red. It lives in schools in calm, plant-rich streams and pools, often in blackwater. As a small predator it picks small zooplankton, insect larvae and small invertebrates. It is popular in the aquarium hobby and is best kept in groups. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf pencilfish?
The Dwarf pencilfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Pencil-shaped body with three black longitudinal bands; small schooling aquarium fish.
Where does the Dwarf pencilfish live?
The Dwarf pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Northern South America; quiet plant-rich streams and pools.
How big does the Dwarf pencilfish get?
The Dwarf pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Dwarf pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf pencilfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf pencilfish edible?
The Dwarf pencilfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nannostomus
More from the family Lebiasinidae
Want the complete picture on the Dwarf pencilfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf pencilfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone