This site was created to get straight to the point. Below are some tips on keeping Hatchetfishes. Send any additional information or questions to Ask An Expert

Compatibility:
Most hatchetfishs are peaceful fish that mix well with other species. Keep in shoals, as these fish are very nervous alone, and prone to jumping. Community tanks with small to medium sized community fish (other small community fish), planted aquaria. Good tank companions include Apistogrammad, Corydoras, Angelfish, tetras, Loricarids, small Doradids, and Killifish.

Hatchetfish Species: Key Points, Tips & Tricks - Hatchetfish Q/A

1. Very good jumper, be aware.
2. They tend to be a upper-level fish, often swimming directly below the surface of the water.
3. They can be sensitive to water conditions. Be careful on water changes.
4. Recommended in groups of 10 or more.
5. They can propel themselves out of the water and at least assist their flight by rapidly striking their pectoral fins to evade predators, albeit only for distances of a few meters and in a straight line.

Hatchetfish Species: DO'S - Hatchetfish Q/A

1. Make sure to have a good lid on your aquarium these things can jump!
2. Make sure to include lots of hiding places, floating plants.
3. It is recommended that a 4" gap is left between the water level and the top of the tank to avoid fish flying out everywhere.

Hatchetfish Species: DONT'S - Hatchetfish Q/A

1. Feed them food that sinks. These fish cannot eat from the middle or bottom of the tank.

Genera and species

Genus Carnegiella (Eigenmann, 1909)

• Blackwinged hatchetfish, Carnegiella marthae
• Pygmy hatchetfish, Carnegiella myersi
• Dwarf hatchetfish, Carnegiella schereri
• Marbled hatchetfish, Carnegiella strigata

  Genus Gasteropelecus (Scopoli, 1777)

• Silver hatchetfish, Gasteropelecus levis
• Spotted hatchetfish, Gasteropelecus maculatus
• Common hatchetfish, Gasteropelecus sternicla

  Genus Thoracocharax (Fowler, 1907)

• Greater hatchetfish, Thoracocharax securis
• Spotfin hatchetfish, Thoracocharax stellatus

Follow the above recommendations and you should have a joyful Hatchetfish experience. Send any questions, comments or pictures to Ask An Expert If you are interested in helping out visit our contributions page.

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