Dwarf Pencilfish (Nannostomus marginatus)

Fish in the family Lebiasinidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Dwarf Pencilfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameNannostomus marginatus
FamilyLebiasinidae
Also known asDwarf Pencil Fish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietomnivore
Adult size1 in
Minimum tank size10 gallons
Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 5.0-7.0, GH 1-10 dGH

Appearance

Short, stocky pencil-shaped body with three bold dark horizontal stripes and red accents in the fins.

Difficulty and care for the Dwarf Pencilfish

Moderate

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

Peaceful and tiny; safe with shrimp and other small, gentle fish.

Log Dwarf Pencilfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Dwarf Pencilfish alongside everything else in your reef.