Hatchetfish

About

Found in South American rivers and streams, Carnegiella strigata strigata is one of the true hatchetfishes. A group instantly recognizable by their dramatically compressed, keel-shaped bodies, which look almost like a small axe head viewed from the side. That unusual deep chest is not just for show; it houses powerful pectoral muscles that allow hatchetfish to burst out of the water and glide short distances, a natural escape response you will want to account for with a tight-fitting lid on any tank they call home. This subspecies stays quite small, rarely exceeding two inches, and spends virtually all of its time at the water's surface, making it a genuinely useful fish for filling that often-neglected upper layer of the aquarium. Temperament-wise, it is entirely peaceful and poses no threat to tankmates. Because these fish are sensitive to open, exposed conditions, they tend to feel most secure with surface cover like floating plants or overhanging leaves. They accept a carnivorous diet including small insects and prepared foods. Despite their somewhat delicate reputation as wild-caught specimens, properly acclimated individuals settle in reasonably well, and their care is considered accessible even for newer fishkeepers.