The Double striped pencilfish (Nannostomus bifasciatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Lebiasinidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The two-band pencilfish is a small characin of the family Lebiasinidae from northern South America. The species reaches only about 3.4 cm and has a thin, pencil-shaped body with two dark lengthwise bands on a pale ground. It lives in groups of about a dozen individuals and often occurs upstream in counter-current zones. As an omnivore with a preference for insects it forages mainly at twilight. Like other pencilfishes it lacks an adipose fin. The species is popular in the aquarium hobby and harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Double striped pencilfish?
The Double striped pencilfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Double striped pencilfish live?
The Double striped pencilfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Double striped pencilfish get?
The Double striped pencilfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Double striped pencilfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Double striped pencilfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Double striped pencilfish edible?
The Double striped pencilfish is not usually eaten.
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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
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