Fin's Fish Guide
The Least pencilfish (Nannostomus minimus) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 2 cm.
Description
The least pencilfish is a very small characin relative (Lebiasinidae) from blackwater streams of the northern Amazon basin in South America. The species stays about 2 cm long and has a very slender, elongate body with a dark longitudinal stripe, characteristic of the pencilfishes. It swims in schools among water plants and roots and eats very small zooplankton and larvae. The fish is harmless to humans and is loved in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Least pencilfish?
The Least pencilfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Least pencilfish live?
The Least pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America: Guyana
How big does the Least pencilfish get?
The Least pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 2 cm.
Is the Least pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Least 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.
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 Least pencilfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Least pencilfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.