Silver Hatchetfish

Gasteropelecus sternicla, the Silver Hatchetfish, is found throughout the Amazon basin and is the most commonly available hatchetfish in the hobby. Its unique deep, blade-shaped body is powered by enlarged pectoral muscles that enable genuine flight above the water surface. A peaceful, surface-dwelling schooling species that feeds on insects and small invertebrates near the waterline.

Water: 23–29°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft and slightly acidic preferred. Tank: 80 L minimum; tight-fitting lid essential; surface plants like floating fern provide security. Feeding: Surface-dwelling; accepts floating flake, freeze-dried insects, and live fruit flies. Behaviour: Peaceful schooling species; keep 6+; skims water surface exclusively. Compatibility: Excellent with mid and bottom-dwelling peaceful species; avoid fin-nippers.