Fin's Fish Guide
The Coral red pencilfish (Nannostomus mortenthaleri) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The coral red pencilfish is a very small South American characin (Lebiasinidae) from clear blackwater of the upper Amazon basin in Peru. The species grows to about 3.5 cm and has a slender, elongate body; males are intensely coral-red with two black longitudinal stripes, females plainer. As a schooling fish it swims among water plants and snaps at small zooplankton and larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coral red pencilfish?
The Coral red pencilfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Coral red pencilfish live?
The Coral red pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Peru
How big does the Coral red pencilfish get?
The Coral red pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Coral red pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Coral red 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.
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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 Coral red pencilfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coral red pencilfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.