How big do hatchetfish get?
about 2.5 inchesThe common hatchetfish or river hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla) is a tropical fish belonging to the freshwater hatchetfish family (Gasteropelecidae). Originating in South America in the Peruvian and middle Amazon, the Guianas and Venezuela, it grows to about 2.5 inches (6.5 cm).
How many hatchetfish should be kept together?
Silver hatchetfish should be kept in groups of at least six. If they aren't, they will often become highly stressed, and can even become ill. A group of six hatchetfish should be viewed as the bare minimum number required, and they only really thrive when kept in larger groups.
How do you take care of hatchetfish?
Common hatchetfish prefer soft water (as their native Amazonian waters have very low water hardness); maintain 2.0 to 14.0 dGH. Temperatures should range from 72⁰ to 81⁰F. As you might imagine, the water should be slightly acidic. A pH of 6.0 to 6.8 is best, though acclimated specimens may adapt to 7.0 to 7.2.
What temperature do hatchetfish like?
The optimal parameters to ensure a close match to the natural habitat of the Silver Hatchetfish are: pH levels: 5.8 to 6.9. Water hardness: 2 to 12 dKH. Water temperature: 74°F to 83°F (23.3-28.3°C)
What fish can live with hatchetfish?
Avoid keeping hatchetfish with other fish that are aggressive, large enough to eat them, or fast-swimming and able to outcompete them for food. They do best with tank mates that are similar-sized and peaceful, such as tetras and corydoras catfish.
Are hatchet fish Social?
Tankmates. Hatchetfish are shoaling fish, which means they like to be kept in a group of 10 or more. Any skirmishes in the group are only a form of play, and no harm ever comes of it.
Are hatchetfish rare?
There are quite a few species of hatchetfish that enter the trade occasionally. Only half a dozen of them are seen at all and of those, only 3 are really common.
How long do killifish live for?
2 to 5 yearsMost killifish live 2 to 5 years in aquariums. Perhaps the most fascinating thing about killifish is their different spawning methods, which separate them into three basic groups: annuals, semi-annuals and non-annuals. In the wild, annuals live in temporary pools that dry up each year for periods up to 6 months.
What zone does the hatchetfish live in?
Found in tropical, subtropical and temperate waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, marine hatchetfishes range in size from Polyipnus danae at 2.8 cm (1.1 in) to the c. 12 cm (4.7 in)-long giant hatchetfish (Argyropelecus gigas).
Can you breed hatchetfish?
1:405:24How to Breed Hatchet Fish-Sexing-Raising - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you want to keep an eye on that also with these guys uh if you do want to breed. Them the phMoreSo you want to keep an eye on that also with these guys uh if you do want to breed. Them the ph needs to be around 5.5 to 6.5. After you get the ph around where you need it at 5.5 to 6.5. You want to
How long do killifish live for?
2 to 5 yearsMost killifish live 2 to 5 years in aquariums. Perhaps the most fascinating thing about killifish is their different spawning methods, which separate them into three basic groups: annuals, semi-annuals and non-annuals. In the wild, annuals live in temporary pools that dry up each year for periods up to 6 months.
What do you feed a Marbled Hatchetfish?
They will not survive on just a flake food. To keep a good balance, give them a protein such as Black mosquito larvae, fruit flies, blood worms, or brine shrimp (either live or frozen) every day. The foods fed to these fish need to stay at the surface longer than most.
Do hatchetfish like duckweed?
Hatchetfish and Aquatic Plants What is this? Floating plants like red root floaters, duckweed, and salvia all give ample cover to these fish.
Where do hatchetfish live?
They can be found in headwaters, pools, and tributaries around these rivers and swamps. Their stiff fins and hatchet shape lend themselves to stellar swimming and predatory capabilities.
What kind of water do hatchetfish like?
Soft water is best for Common Hatchetfish, as it most closely matches the water conditions in the Amazon waters. They also prefer slightly acidic water; like the Silver Hatchetfish, they don’t do well in water that has too much ammonia.
Why are silver hatchetfish shy?
Because they are so shy, Silver Hatchetfish will look for places to hide. In the wild, they hide in the roots of floating plants, so if you can recreate this environment in your home tank, your Silver Hatchetfish will be happy, indeed. They will be scared of other active fish and will be stressed if they don’t have places to seek refuge.
How far can hatchetfish fly?
They stay near the surface of the water pretty much all the time, even when they breed. In the wild, hatchetfish are capable of flying more than 4 feet. In your home aquarium, they are likely to try to jump out.
What is a marbled hatchetfish?
The Marbled Hatchetfish, as its name implies, is quite a treat to behold, with an iridescent and black marbled body with bronze stripes.
What is the smallest group of silver hatchetfish?
Six is the smallest group of Silver Hatchetfish that we advise. These fish do better when they are in a larger group. You definitely do not want to keep singles–they will not thrive.
Why are hatchetfish called hatchetfish?
The unique Hatchetfish, named so because its triangular profile looks like a hatchet , is an exciting choice for a home aquarium. You’ll enjoy watching these little ones darting back and forth across your tank: they are excellent swimmers who skillfully maneuver their way through the water.
Where do hatchetfish live?
Native to Central and South America, Hatchetfish mostly thrive in the Amazonian River basin. You can find them in various water bodies such as streams, rivers, swamps, tributaries, pools and canals. Sometimes, during the rainy season, they even pop in floodplain lakes.
How big do hatchetfish get?
Despite being one of the smallest freshwater fish, they are fierce warriors. They grow up to 1.25” (3.2 cm) – 2.5” (6.5 cm).
What is hatchetfish breeding?
Breeding of Hatchetfish. Summary. One of the most unique looking freshwater fish out there , Hatchetfish have been adored by fishkeepers around the globe. Watching these little predators roam around your aquarium is truly a delightful experience. But, with good, comes the hard work.
Why are hatchetfish shy?
Hatchetfish are extremely shy by nature, which is why we strongly suggest not to disturb them by knocking on the aquarium walls or flashing lights on them. This would cause a lot of stress to them, thereby deteriorating their health. For the same reason, they spend a considerable amount of their time hiding.
How many species of hatchetfish are there?
To be specific, there are nine separate species of Hatchetfish that exist across three genera. The most common types of Hatchetfish are as follows: Silver Hatchetfish, scientifically known as Gasteropelecus levis. Common Hatchetfish, scientifically known as Gasteropelecus sternicla.
Why do hatchetfish need a filter?
Filter. You would have to invest in a strong filter for the freshwater tank where you keep your Hatchetfish because they need a continuous supply of clean water. Else, they will develop sickness and perish away sooner than expected. So, purchase a decent filter for their tank.
How far can a hatchetfish jump?
One of the most remarkable features of Hatchetfish is that they can jump to amazing distance. Believe it or not, they can take a leap of up to four feet.
What color are hatchetfish?
In the marbled hatchetfish, the basic coloration is brownish to golden yellow with a silver sheen; the back is dark green with black dots of varying size. The flanks are covered with a pattern of spots typically of a pink to brown color, changing to light blue.
Where do hatchetfish come from?
The hatchetfish originates in the marshes, flooded regions, brooks, ditches, and in the small and large rivers all over The Guianas in northern South America. It is especially common in the jungle streams of the central and lower parts of the Amazon River basin.
How many species of hatchetfish are there?
Of the genus commonly referred to as hatchetfish, a total of three species are known, Carnegiella myersi, Carnegiella marthae, and Carnegiella strigata. Only Carnegiella strigata is commonly known and represented by not less than five sub-species, which are commonly seen today in aquarium stores.
What is the best way to keep hatchetfish in an aquarium?
Hatchetfish are a very popular addition to aquariums, however, it is important to remember that this is fish that lives under the forest canopy. Provide a large aquarium with subdued or dimmed LED lighting. Use plant species that grow up to the surface of the water to simulate their natural environment.
How long does it take for hatchetfish to eat their parents?
However, hatchetfish parents will actively eat the fry as soon as they hatch, so remove the parents within 24 hours. Also, make sure the plants used in a breeding tank are free of snails as fish eggs are a snail's favorite food.
What is a hatchet fish?
Few people know about the amazing little freshwater flying fish, better known as the hatchetfish. Likewise, many aquarists who keep these popular fish have also never learned of their flying ability, which is really quite remarkable for their small size. In nature, hatchetfish make long, gliding flights using their powerful “wing-like” fins ...
How long does it take for a frog to hatch?
The sticky scattered eggs cling to these fine-leaved plants. The rearing of the fry, which hatch after 24-30 hours, is not difficult.
What is a hatchet fish?
Hatchetfish are some of the more unique looking fish species available to freshwater hobbyists. They get to a couple of inches in size and some have the ability to fly or jump out of the water. They are a top dwelling fish and along with their known jumping habits an aquarium with a tight fitting hood is definitley needed to keep them ...
How big do hatchetfish get?
Common Hatchetfish. Gets to about 1.5 inches in size and needs to be kept in groups of 6 or more. Carnegiella strigata. Marble Hatchetfish. This hatchetfish gets to about 2 inches in size and needs a good fitting hood because they are known tank jumpers.
Why are hatchetfish called flying fish?
They have been called freshwater flying fish because of their habit of leaping from the water to avoid danger. The name hatchet fish comes from their unusual shape, the belly is extended downwards to form a thin blade-like keel resembling a curved hatchet.
Where do silver hatchetfish spawn?
In the wild, they spawn amongst the fine roots of plants along the river banks.
What is the color of the fins on a strigata?
There is a dark stripe from the operculum to the caudal peduncle with a silver margin to the upper side. There are three irregularly shaped black bars on the keel. The fins are colorless and the adipose is absent. It has been suggested that there are two sub-species C.strigata strigata and C.strigata vesca. The fish was originally introduced to Europe in 1912. Once established these hatchets are hardy and greedy eaters.
What color are mosquito fish?
The color is yellowish to a yellow-green with silver reflecting scales, the color is darker on the back and paler below. On the flank is a brown to black line with pale green lines above and below it. There are also two further less distinct lines bordering the green lines. The pelvic fins are almost non-existent and all the fins are clear except for a dark band on the leading edge of the dorsal, The fish is a surface feeder and in the aquarium is particularly fond of mosquito larvae although it can be encouraged to take the better quality dry foods, As far as is known neither this species nor any of the other species are bred commercially so that all the specimens seen for sale are wild-caught fishes which are borne out by the fact that specimens in the shops are above 4 cm in length.
How long does it take for a tetra to hatch?
Although single pairs have been spawned in aquaria it is to be expected that in the wild communal spanning is the norm. The eggs hatch in about thirty hours and the rearing and care is the same as you would give to the common tetras.
Do all keeled hatchets have the same shape?
All members of these genera have the same basic deep keeled hatchet shape and the same habits, some species lack the adipose fins and there are variations in color patterns but generally, all species are very similar.
Do hatchets like water?
The hatchets are interesting additions to your collection and providing they are given a quiet environment when first introduced they usually settle in well. Surprisingly for a fish primarily from the Amazon area, they are not particularly concerned about water hardness. I have kept them in both London tap water and Essex tap water but for breeding softer water is probably preferable.
Where do hatchetfish hang out?
Hatchetfish are super cool schooling fish that hang out at the bottom of the tank, but they got some individual care requirements that if you don't know ahead of time, you will surely run into some problems.
How many gallons of water do hatchetfish need?
This way they will already be healthy when they get into our aquarium and they can really be happy and thrive. A minimum of 20-gallon tank is required to home the smaller Hatchetfish, but for the bigger ones, you will surely need a bigger tank.
What do worms like to eat?
Since you know that they like to jump out of the water, so you will also know now that they want food at top of the water. When you feed them you want food that can stay at the top for a long time. It can be tiny pellets, that can be frozen cubes, or bloodworms, flake food, anything that just can stay at the top for as long as possible.
Do hatchetfish need a top?
This is the most important thing with the Hatchetfish, they have to have a top. They are built like skipping stones, if you don't have any cover they will shoot right out of the tank. They love to catch insects above the water, so if you don't have a top you will not be able to keep them for long.
Origin and Distribution
Colors and Markings
- Hatchetfish get their name from their peculiar shape. From the side, they look like triangles that are rounded only at the bottom, not unlike the shape of a hatchet. From the front, they are thinner than a cracker, tapering to a wedged knife-edge along the belly. The disproportionately deep body contains large muscles that contribute to the fish’s ability to flap its fins in flight. In the marbled h…
Tankmates
- Hatchetfish are shoaling fish, which means they like to be kept in a group of 10 or more. Any skirmishes in the group are only a form of play, and no harm ever comes of it. They are very tolerant of bottom dwellers and can be kept without danger among quiet and mild-mannered species of fish of about the same size.
Hatchetfish Habitat and Care
- After about 48 hours of thwarted attempts, captured wild hatchetfish will never attempt flight again. It is truly unfortunate that we do not get to see these fish fly in the aquarium, but they have been bred in captivity for so many generations that they have lost the will to even attempt the feat even when startled from below. This fish is an inhabitant of exclusively blackwater environments. The…
Hatchetfish Diet and Feeding
- In nature, they are insect eaters and larva eaters taking terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates and other zooplankton taken at or near the water surface. They are very effective in keeping mosquito populations down. In the aquarium, it will accept dried foods of a suitable size but should also be offered regular meals of small live and frozen fare such as Artemia nauplii,Daphnia,Moina, or gri…
Gender Differences
- External sexual characteristics are unknown. Some specimens do grow larger and fuller-bodied than others and are likely adult females. There are slightly different strains of color lines, part due to inbreeding, and partly due to observation technique. When not in prime breeding condition, or when one is not observing closely, all hatchetfish simply appear silver.
Breeding The Hatchetfish
- Spawning in this species is possible but it is not common. This is a very difficult fish to breed, and it is only to be attempted by an expert breeder or someone who wants a challenge and has the time, space, and patience to attempt it. This species scatters its eggsamong the high roots of plants very near the surface of the water at the natural dusk of a tank that is lit by natural sunligh…
More Pet Fish Species and Further Research
- If hatchetfish appeal to you, and you are interested in some compatible fish for your aquarium, read up on: 1. Cardinal tetras 2. Tiger barbs 3. Corydoras catfish Check out additional fish species profiles for more information on other freshwaterfish.