Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla)

Fish in the family Gasteropelecidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Silver Hatchetfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameGasteropelecus sternicla
FamilyGasteropelecidae
Also known asCommon Hatchetfish, River Hatchetfish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietomnivore
Adult size2.6 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 73-81°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 3-15 dGH

Appearance

Larger silvery hatchet-shaped body with a deep keeled belly and a thin dark lateral line.

Difficulty and care for the Silver Hatchetfish

Moderate

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon and Orinoco basins)

Keeper notes

Peaceful schooling surface-dweller.

Log Silver Hatchetfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Silver Hatchetfish alongside everything else in your reef.