About the Marble Hatchetfish
Name: Marble Hatchetfish
Max Size: Marble Hatchetfish (Carnegiella strigata) grows to an average size of about 1.5-2 inches, making them small-sized fish.
Water Parameters: Marble Hatchetfish prefer soft and slightly acidic water conditions. The recommended pH range is around 6.0-7.0, and the temperature should be maintained between 75-82Β°F.
Diet: Marble Hatchetfish are carnivorous and primarily feed on small insects, insects' larvae, and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed high-quality floating pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. It's important to offer them small-sized food items that can be easily consumed.
Temperament: Marble Hatchetfish are generally peaceful and non-aggressive fish. They should be kept in groups of at least 6 individuals to ensure their well-being and minimize stress. They may become skittish if kept alone or in small numbers.
Tank Setup: Marble Hatchetfish require an aquarium with a tight-fitting lid as they are known for their ability to jump. The tank should have plenty of open swimming space in the upper water column. Provide floating plants or tall decorations to create shaded areas, mimicking their natural habitat. A dark substrate can help enhance their coloration.
Compatibility: Marble Hatchetfish are compatible with other peaceful community fish of similar size. They should not be kept with aggressive or fin-nipping species. Tank mates that occupy different levels of the aquarium, such as bottom-dwellers, can create a harmonious community.
Behavior: Marble Hatchetfish are best known for their unique shape and ability to glide above the water's surface. They have enlarged pectoral fins that allow them to "fly" short distances above the water. They are peaceful shoaling fish and tend to stick together in groups. They are generally calm and can make an interesting addition to a peaceful community aquarium.
Fun Fact: Marble Hatchetfish have a distinctive marbled pattern on their body, which provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. They have a unique adaptation that allows them to breathe atmospheric air by gulping it from the water's surface, thanks to a specialized labyrinth organ. This adaptation enables them to survive in oxygen-deprived waters and contributes to their ability to glide above the water's surface.