Fin's Fish Guide
The Anomalous pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Freshwater of northern South America, including the Amazon and Guiana region.
Description
The golden pencilfish is a small characin of the family Lebiasinidae from northern South America. The species reaches only about 6.5 cm and has a thin, pencil-shaped body with a shining golden to brownish flank and a dark lengthwise stripe. It inhabits small, slow-flowing rivers and swamps, where it lives in groups. Males defend small territories and are more brightly coloured than females. As an omnivore it searches for small invertebrates and plant matter in the upper water layers. The species is very popular with aquarists and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Anomalous pencilfish?
The Anomalous pencilfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, pencil-shaped body with a golden sheen; males defend small territories.
Where does the Anomalous pencilfish live?
The Anomalous pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of northern South America, including the Amazon and Guiana region.
How big does the Anomalous pencilfish get?
The Anomalous pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 7 cm.
Is the Anomalous pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Anomalous pencilfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Anomalous pencilfish edible?
The Anomalous pencilfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Nannostomus
More from the family Lebiasinidae
Want the complete picture on the Anomalous pencilfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Anomalous pencilfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.