Dwarf pencilfish

Three dark stripes on a compact pencil-shaped body

Daytime stripes alternate with pale gaps and limited red accents. No adipose fin; a short anal fin remains.

Adult length

Up to 3.5 cm

Water temperature

22–28 °C

pH

4–7

Hardness

1–10 dGH

Natural habitat

Native to the lower and middle Amazon basin and other waters of northern South America.

Small, timid fish can miss food among dominant companions. Do not overcrowd.