Silver Hatchet

Silver Hatchetfish – Care Guide & Aquarium Companions

Silver Hatchetfish are peaceful and unusual freshwater schooling fish known for their distinctive deep, hatchet-shaped bodies and surface-dwelling behaviour. They originate from South America and spend most of their time swimming close to the water surface, where they naturally feed on insects and other small foods.

Their unique appearance and calm temperament make them an excellent choice for peaceful planted and community aquariums.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size:
A tank with plenty of horizontal surface area is important. Around 80–120 litres or larger is recommended depending on the species and group size.

Water Temperature:
Generally 23°C – 28°C.

pH Range:
Approximately 5.5 – 7.5.

Aquarium Setup:
Silver Hatchetfish prefer calm, well-maintained aquariums with plenty of swimming space near the surface.

A suitable setup should include:

• Floating plants

• Open surface swimming areas

• Live plants

• Driftwood

• Gentle to moderate filtration

• Clean, well-oxygenated water

• A tightly fitted aquarium lid

A secure lid is extremely important because Hatchetfish are powerful jumpers and can easily escape through small openings.

Feeding

Silver Hatchetfish naturally feed heavily on insects and other small foods near the water surface.

Suitable aquarium foods include:

• High-quality floating flakes

• Micro pellets

• Brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Bloodworms

• Mosquito larvae

• Small live foods

• Frozen foods

• Small insect-based foods

Floating and slow-sinking foods are particularly useful because Silver Hatchetfish spend most of their time near the surface.

Behaviour & Grouping

Silver Hatchetfish are peaceful and social fish that should be kept in groups.

A group of at least 6 or more is recommended to help them feel secure and display more natural schooling behaviour.

They can be nervous or shy when kept alone or with overly aggressive and active fish.

Floating plants and shaded areas can help them feel more comfortable.

Suitable Tank Companions

Silver Hatchetfish can usually be kept with:

Tetras • Rasboras • Corydoras • Rams • Dwarf Cichlids • Small Plecos • Peaceful Gouramis and other calm community fish

They are especially suitable for aquariums where other fish occupy the middle and bottom areas, leaving the upper section available for the Hatchetfish.

Avoid large, aggressive or highly predatory fish that may chase or eat them.

Adult Size

Silver Hatchetfish generally remain relatively small, with common aquarium species reaching approximately 4–6 cm depending on the species and individual.

Important Note

Silver Hatchetfish are excellent jumpers, so never keep them in an uncovered aquarium. Even small openings around filters or pipes should be secured.

They also prefer peaceful surroundings and may struggle to compete for food with very aggressive or boisterous fish.

With a secure lid, suitable group size, peaceful companions and good-quality surface foods, Silver Hatchetfish make a beautiful and unusual addition to a freshwater community aquarium.