Dwarf Pencilfish, scientifically known as Nannostomus marginatus, is a small freshwater fish that belongs to the Lebiasinidae family in the Nannostomus genus.
Its name comes from Greek and Latin origins, meaning “small” and “relating to the mouth,” as well as “marginated.”
First described in 1909 by C.H. Eigenmann, this fish has a long body with noticeable horizontal stripes.
Dwarf Pencilfish has been popular among aquarium enthusiasts since the early twentieth century.
When keeping these fish in an aquarium, it’s best to have at least five fish together in a tank that is at least 60 cm (about 24 inches) long.
You can check out what this fish looks like over here.
Dwarf Pencilfish Interesting Facts
- Dwarf Pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus) grow up to 1.4 inches (3.5 centimeters) long and are native to South America.
- These fish prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 5.8 to 7.5, and temperatures of 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C).
- Ideal aquarium conditions include at least five Dwarf Pencilfish in a tank of minimum 24 inches long.
Dwarf Pencilfish Habitat
Dwarf Pencilfish is found in South America.
Its habitat includes the Amazon River, as well as regions in Colombia, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela that lie east of the Andes mountains.
This fish lives close to the bottom of water bodies (benthopelagic) and prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 5.8 to 7.5.
The ideal water hardness should be up to 15 dH with a temperature range of about 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C). Dwarf Pencilfish thrives in tropical environments.
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C) |
| Water pH: | 5.8 to 7.5 pH |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Dwarf Pencilfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 1.4 inches (3.5 centimeters)
Dwarf Pencilfish is one of the smallest species within its genus, only growing up to 1.4 inches (3.5 centimeters) long.
Dwarf Pencilfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Lebiasinidae |
| Genus: | Nannostomus |
| Scientific Name: | Nannostomus marginatus |
| Also Known As: | Dwarf Pencilfish |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |