Peixe-lápis Anão
(Nannostomus marginatus)

Description

The Dwarf Pencilfish (*Nannostomus marginatus*) is a captivating and peaceful freshwater fish, ideal for nano or community aquariums. It’s known for its slender, elongated body, adorned with prominent horizontal stripes – typically two bold black lines with white lines in between, often accented by red and yellow hints on the fins and body. While its common name suggests it’s the smallest pencilfish, it’s actually one of the smallest, reaching about 3.5 cm. They exhibit interesting behaviors, often engaging in playful “tag” games and loosely shoaling, though they are not strict schooling fish. In their natural habitat, they are found in slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters, often stained with tannins.

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Dwarf Pencilfish: A Miniature Jewel for Your Peaceful Aquarium

Add subtle beauty and engaging behavior to your nano or community tank with the charming Dwarf Pencilfish. This serene species is perfect for aquarists seeking a tranquil aquatic display.

Overview

The Dwarf Pencilfish (*Nannostomus marginatus*) is a small, elegant characin distinguished by its slender body and striking horizontal stripes. Typically, two bold black lines are contrasted by white, with delicate red and yellow highlights often adorning its fins and body. [18] Reaching about 3.5 cm, these active fish are often seen gracefully navigating the mid to top levels of your aquarium. They engage in playful interactions and form loose shoals, adding dynamic life to your planted tank. [2, 10]

Care Level

Considered easy to moderate to care for, Dwarf Pencilfish are peaceful and shy, making them excellent companions for other small, non-aggressive fish like Tetras or Corydoras. [3, 10, 18] They thrive in groups of at least 8-10 individuals, which encourages their natural behavior and reduces potential shyness. [2, 10] Provide ample hiding spots to ensure their comfort.

Tank Essentials

A minimum tank size of 38 litres (10 gallons) is recommended for a group of Dwarf Pencilfish. [3, 10, 12] They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 5.5-7.5 and temperatures between 22-28°C. [2, 3, 5, 10] A well-planted aquarium with subdued lighting and gentle filtration will mimic their natural South American habitats and help these healthy aquarium fish feel secure. [2, 4, 10, 18]

Diet

Dwarf Pencilfish are omnivores with small mouths, requiring appropriately sized foods. [2, 3, 5] Offer a varied diet of high-quality micro pellets or flakes, supplemented with small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, or bloodworms. [2, 3, 4, 10]

Why Buy From Us

When you buy Dwarf Pencilfish online from us, you receive vibrant, ethically sourced specimens chosen for their health and adaptability. We prioritize humane shipping and provide expert guidance to help ensure your new aquatic companions thrive in your home aquarium.

• Scientific Name: *Nannostomus marginatus*
• Common Name / Variant: Dwarf Pencilfish
• Maximum Size: 3.5 cm [2, 16]
• Origin: South America (Brazil, Colombia, Guyana, Peru, Suriname) [2, 3, 4, 16]
• pH Range: 5.5–7.5 [2, 3, 5, 9, 10]
• Temperature: 22–28°C [2, 3, 5, 9, 10]
• Lifespan: 3–5 years [2, 5, 10, 12]
• Swimming Zone: Mid to Top [2, 3, 5, 10, 18]

Bring the understated elegance of Dwarf Pencilfish to your aquarium today!

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