Fin's Fish Guide
The Diptail pencilfish (Nannostomus eques) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The Diptail pencilfish is a pencilfish (Lebiasinidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Orinoco basins in South America. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a very slender, elongate, cigar-shaped body, often with one or more dark longitudinal stripes. Remarkably it swims obliquely head-up; a brown band runs over the flank to the lower tail lobe. As a calm schooling fish it hovers among water plants of soft, blackwater streams and snaps at small insects, larvae and plankton; at night its pattern can change. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Diptail pencilfish?
The Diptail pencilfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Diptail pencilfish live?
The Diptail pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Brazil, Peru
How big does the Diptail pencilfish get?
The Diptail pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Diptail pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Diptail 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 Diptail pencilfish edible?
Yes, the Diptail pencilfish is commonly 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 Diptail pencilfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Diptail pencilfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.