The Common Hatchetfish has a body that, as its name suggests, is typically “hatchet-shaped.” It also has a distinctive black horizontal line running from behind the head to the base of the caudal fin. It is similar to Thoracocharax securis (the Silver Hatchetfish), with which it is sometimes confused.
Other common names
- Black-lined/Black-stroke Hatchetfish
Family
- Gasteropelecidae
Distribution
- Peruvian Amazon, Guianas, Suriname, Trinidad, and Mato Grosso (Brazil).
Size
- Around 2 1/2in (6.5cm).
Behavior
- Peaceful shoaler; should not be kept with boisterous tankmates.
Diet
- Wide range of floating foods accepted; sinking foods usually ignored once they float down below top inch (3cm) of the water column.
Aquarium
- Well covered, well filtered tank, with some clear spaces on the surface recommended. Provide plant thickets and some floating plants as shelter. Softish, slightly acid water preferred, as is a water current (produced via the outlet of a power filter or power head). Temperature range: 73-82 F (23-28 C).
Breeding
- No documented accounts currently available.
