PisciDex Species Profile
Dwarf Pencilfish
Tiny surface-to-midwater characin for quiet planted or blackwater nano tanks with very peaceful companions.
Nannostomus marginatus
Lebiasinidae | South America | Amazon and Guiana Shield drainages
Core Requirements
Tank Size
10 gallons minimum
Adult Size
1.2 inches
Group Size
Group 8+
Bioload
1/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
72-82 F
pH
5-7
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
Yes
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Peaceful
Aggression
1/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
4 years
Breeding
Intermediate
Schooling
Yes
Compatibility Tags
CommunityNano TankPeacefulSchoolingMid WaterTop WaterPlant SafeInvert SafeShrimp SafeBlackwaterSoftwater
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.