Slim Hatchet Chela

Chela laubuca (closely allied and sometimes synonymised with Laubuca laubuca) is a slim, active surface danionid widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka. It is a fast, energetic fish that spends most of its time in the upper water column, occasionally making short leaps above the surface — a behaviour that demands a fully covered aquarium at all times.

Its iridescent blue-green mid-flank blotch is its most striking feature, flashing brilliantly under aquarium lighting as the fish turns. In a school of ten or more the combined flashing effect is highly attractive, particularly in a well-planted tank with open surface areas.

The Slim Hatchet Chela is an excellent community fish for the upper water column and is compatible with virtually all small, non-aggressive species. Its care requirements are minimal beyond the essential covered tank, making it suitable for fishkeepers of all experience levels.

Water: Temperature 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 5–15; highly adaptable; strong lid far more important than precise water chemistry. Tank: Minimum 80 L; tight-fitting lid absolutely required; surface plants welcome; gentle to moderate current. Feeding: Floating flake, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen foods at the surface; not a fussy eater. Breeding: Egg-scatterer; surface spawner over floating plants; straightforward for intermediate-level hobbyists. Compatibility: Peaceful with all community fish; natural upper-level complement to mid- and bottom-dwelling species.