Dwarf Pencilfish
Nannostomus marginatus
Advanced
Freshwater
Very peaceful and shy. One of the smallest pencilfish. Horizontal posture. Perfect for nano aquariums.
Lebiasinidae
Max Size
2.5 cm (1")
Min Tank
30 L (8 gal)
Min Group
8+
Diet
Omnivore. Tiny foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, infusoria. Diminutive mouth.
Water Parameters
Temperature
24.0-28.0°C
75-82°F
pH
4.0-7.0
Hardness (dGH)
1.0-8.0
Min Tank Size
30 L
8 gal
About
The Dwarf Pencilfish is a charming miniature with three distinct horizontal stripes. Perfect for planted nano aquariums, one of the most suitable fish for 30-liter tanks.
Behavior & Temperament
Very peaceful and shy. One of the smallest pencilfish. Horizontal posture. Perfect for nano aquariums.
Feeding
Omnivore. Tiny foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, infusoria. Diminutive mouth.
Breeding
Oviparous. Lays eggs among moss and fine plants. Few eggs, difficult to breed.
Care Notes
Very soft and acidic water. Abundant tannins. Almost no current. Gentle filtration (sponge).
Compatibility
Only with microfish: Boraras, Corydoras pygmaeus, Neocaridina shrimp.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Nannostomus marginatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Lebiasinidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Advanced |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 2.5 cm (1") |
| Min Tank | 30 L (8 gal) |
| Min Group | 8+ |
| Diet | Omnivore. Tiny foods: brine shrimp nauplii, microworms, infusoria. Diminutive mouth. |
| Temperament | Very peaceful and shy. One of the smallest pencilfish. Horizontal posture. Perfect for nano aquariums. |
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