Silver Hatchetfish
Gasteropelecus sternicla
Family : Characidae
Surface-dwelling fish with a laterally compressed body, capable of gliding out of the water to catch insects.
Description
The silver hatchetfish reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is strongly compressed laterally with a sharp belly. It has large pectoral fins that allow it to jump out of the water. Its coloration is silvery with a dark horizontal line. It is a gregarious fish that lives in schools near the surface. It is peaceful but can be nervous. In the aquarium, it requires a tight-fitting lid to prevent jumping. It feeds mainly on insects at the surface. Its mouth is upturned.
Habitat
Region :
Calm, acidic waters of rivers and creeks in Guyana, Suriname and Brazil
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Ideal temperature between 24 and 28°C, pH 6.0 to 7.5, soft GH (2-10°d). A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended for a group of 6 to 8 individuals. Diet should be rich in insects: fruit flies, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and surface flakes. Filtration should be gentle to avoid strong currents. Subdued lighting and floating plants are appreciated. A lid is essential. Avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers. Breeding is rare in captivity, requiring very acidic water and fine-leaved plants.
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