Hatchetfish

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Hatchetfish

Aquarium Size
Small, Medium
Difficulty Of Care
Weekly
Group
Freshwater
Size
Small
Suitable Tank Mates
Other Hatchetfish; Corydoras, Tetras, Catfish, Dwarf Cichlids, Gouramis
Swimming Region
Upper
Temperament
Community
Fish Water Condition
Warm, Soft, Slightly Acidic Water
ADVERTISEMENT

Hatchetfish General Description

Freshwater hatchetfish are a type of ray-finned fishes belonging to the family Gasteropelecidae. These fish are divided into three genera with a total of nine different species with the Common Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla) being the most common. In general, they are peaceful schooling fish that can be kept in community tanks with other community species. Though these fish can get along with other peaceful species, males of the same species sometimes have trouble getting along.

Freshwater hatchetfish are a type of ray-finned fishes belonging to the family Gasteropelecidae.

Origins

All freshwater hatchetfish come from South America and Panama where they tend to inhabit the upper level of the water column, swimming just below the surface.

Color

Hatchetfish are named for the unique, hatchet-like shape of their bodies – these fish also have large pectoral fins which enable them to jump out of the water to catch insects. Different species exhibit different colorations with colors ranging from black, gray, silver and brown to brighter colors like red, orange, and green. Several species have a striped or marbled pattern.

Maintenance and Care

ADVERTISEMENT

Hatchetfish are a moderately hardy group of fishes that is best for experienced or intermediate-level aquarium hobbyists. Though these fish can adapt to a range of water conditions, they are highly susceptible to Ich and they have a tendency to jump so they need a covered tank. These fish come from a tropical or semi-tropical environment so they require a tank temperature in the 72°F to 82°F range with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 and a water hardness in the 2 to 15 dGH range. In terms of habitat, these fish prefer clean water with some floating plants but plenty of room to swim at the surface of the water.

This is a moderately hardy group of fishes that is best for experienced or intermediate-level aquarium hobbyists.

Feeding

Freshwater hatchetfish are carnivores by nature, feeding on insects and crustaceans in their natural habitat. These fish are particularly well adapted to eating small insects from the surface of the water since their mouths are located on the top of their bodies. In the home aquarium, they should be fed a diet of carnivore flakes, pellets or granules as well as live and frozen foods.

Also read:Fast-Growing Aquarium Plants for Planted Tanks

Breeding Info

There are very few physical differences between male and female, so sexing these fish is difficult. They are egg layers but some species like the Common Hatchetfish are very difficult to breed in the home aquarium. The Marbled Hatchetfish, on the other hand, breeds quite readily in the home aquarium.

Aquarium Varieties

There are nine species of freshwater hatchetfish from three genera: Carnegiella, Gasteropelecus, and Thoracocharax.

    Photo credit: chonlasub woravichan/Shutterstock; Besjunior/Shutterstock

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    You May Like

    Devastating Statistics Show an Increase in Euthanasia of Cats and Dogs

    The data collected by Best Friends Animal Society indicates that there is an animal shelter crisis in America, with more and more pets being abandoned and less of them getting adopted, but it’s not all bleak – even though shelters have seen better day

    How To Remove A Tick From A Dog

    They''re more than an irritant - these little bloodsuckers can mean big trouble for you and your pooch. Here''s how to remove a tick from a dog.

    How to Help a Semi-Feral Cat Get Used to Life Indoors

    Stray cats aren''t an uncommon sight. If you''re thinking about asking one to move in, here are some tips on how to help make the transition easier.

    Lusitano Horse

    The Lusitano horse is filled with a lot of energy, so it needs to be exercised regularly. These horses are known for their endearing personality.

    Blue Throated Conure

    While they''re a rare sight in captivity, the Blue Throated Conure has a wonderful personality and an affectionate nature, which makes them great pets.

    Havapoo

    The Havapoo is a mix of Havanese and Miniature or Toy Poodle dog breeds. Also known as the Poovanese or Havadoodle, this hybrid is hypoallergenic.

    12 Classy Pet-Inspired Back-to-School Essentials

    Whether your kid is heading back to school or you''re holding down a 9-to-5, these pet-friendly supplies keep you on top of homework and office work.

    Keeping Fit and on Track With Hachiko Smart Dog Tracker

    If one of your New Year''s Resolutions is to keep your dog in tip-top shape, the Hachiko Smart Dog Tracker is like having your own canine personal trainer!

    Best Cool Holiday Gifts For Dogs

    Make a list, check it twice. Who''s been naughty or nice? Our pooches always make it onto the ""Nice"" list, so put these cool gifts for dogs under the tree.

    Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog

    One glance at the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is all it takes to know that this breed was developed for herding and guarding livestock.

    Norbottenspets

    The Norbottenspets is a spitz-type dog that is considered a rare breed. It is often ranked among the top dog breeds for getting along with children.

    6 Advantages Of Living In A Multi Dog Household

    Two dogs are better than one – Let’s look at the pros of a multi dog household The more, the merrier – that’s the motto of many famil…

    Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Rosie

    Say hi to Rosie, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Rosie is a young Golden Retriever mix from North Little Rock, AR. She is already spayed, h…

    7 Common Veterinary Treatments For Dog Allergies

    Sneezing, itching, licking, runny eyes - dog allergies can present in many ways and come from different sources. Here''s how you can give your dog relief.

    How to Clicker Train Your Cat

    You''ve heard about clicker training for dogs, but did you know that it''s used to train cats? Here are some tips if you''re going to clicker train your cat.