Nannostomus espei

Nannostomus espei (Meinken, 1956) is a species of actinopterygii belonging to the family Lebiasinidae (order Characiformes).

Common name. In English this species is commonly known as the espei's pencilfish.

Taxonomy. The scientific name Nannostomus espei (Meinken, 1956) places this species within the actinopterygii lineage, among the most diverse vertebrates on Earth.

Description & ecology. As a member of Characiformes, Nannostomus espei exhibits the group's characteristic adaptations: They are chiefly Neotropical and African freshwater fishes, typically toothed and often with an adipose fin. Its biology reflects the demands of its particular habitat and life history within the family Lebiasinidae.

Distribution. The species occurs within the natural range of its lineage; precise localities and depth preferences are documented in the taxonomic literature for Lebiasinidae.

Human relevance. Like many fishes, it may be of interest to fisheries, aquaculture, the aquarium trade, or conservation, depending on its abundance and distribution.