The marbled hatchetfish, scientifically known as Carnegiella strigata, is a small and captivating freshwater fish native to South America. It belongs to the family Gasteropelecidae, commonly known as the hatchetfish family. This species is popular among aquarists due to its unique body shape and attractive coloration.
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Appearance: Marbled hatchetfish have a distinct body shape that resembles a hatchet or an arrowhead. They have a compressed body with a high dorsal fin that extends horizontally, giving them the ability to "glide" or "fly" short distances above the water's surface. The body coloration varies from translucent to silver or light gray, and the lower portion of their body displays a marbled or mottled pattern in shades of brown and cream. They have a gold or yellow line that runs from the eye to the caudal fin.
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Size: Marbled hatchetfish are relatively small, with an average size of about 3.5 cm (1.4 in) in length. Some individuals may reach slightly larger sizes, but they generally remain petite compared to other fish species.
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Behavior: These fish are known for their unique swimming behavior. They have the ability to leap out of the water and "glide" for short distances using their pectoral fins. This behavior is believed to help them escape predators or catch insects that may be flying above the water's surface. Marbled hatchetfish are peaceful and prefer to swim in the upper levels of the aquarium.
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Habitat and Distribution: Marbled hatchetfish are native to the freshwater streams and rivers of South America, specifically in the Amazon River basin and its tributaries. They are typically found in areas with dense vegetation and overhanging branches, where they can hide and find cover. In the wild, they inhabit slow-moving waters with a lot of surface vegetation.
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Tank Requirements: When keeping marbled hatchetfish in an aquarium, it is important to provide them with a tank that mimics their natural habitat. A well-planted tank with floating plants, broad-leaved plants, and branches or roots that extend above the water's surface will provide them with the cover they need. They prefer dim lighting conditions and appreciate a peaceful environment. The water temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C (75-82°F), and the pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral.
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Feeding: Marbled hatchetfish are primarily insectivores in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed a diet that includes high-quality flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as small insects, brine shrimp, or daphnia. It's beneficial to offer a varied diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
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Compatibility: Marbled hatchetfish are peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish species. They are suitable tankmates for other peaceful community fish like tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and small catfish. It's important to avoid housing them with larger or aggressive species that may pose a threat to their delicate bodies.
Marbled hatchetfish are an interesting addition to aquariums due to their unique body shape and fascinating swimming behavior. With proper care, suitable tank conditions, and a well-balanced diet, they can thrive and add a touch of elegance to your aquatic setup.
