Common Hatchetfish
Gasteropelecus sternicla
Common Hatchetfish is a peaceful top swimmer. Keep in a school of 8+.
Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.
Quick facts
- Adult size
- ≤ 6.5 cm (≤ 2.6 in)
- Aquarium size
- 90 L or larger / ≥ 80 cm (≥ 31.5 in) minimum length
- Care level
- Beginner – Intermediate
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Swimming zone
- Top swimmer
- Temperature
- 22–27 °C
- pH
- 6–7
- GH
- 2–15 dGH
- Diet
- Omnivore
- Lifespan
- up to 5 years
- Group behavior
- Keep in a school of 8+
Care requirements
Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.
Lifespan: up to 5 years.
Aquarium size and space needs
Minimum aquarium size: 90 L or larger / ≥ 80 cm (≥ 31.5 in) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.
Water parameters
Suitable water: temperature 22–27 °C, pH 6–7, GH 2–15 dGH.
Temperament and compatibility
Common Hatchetfish is peaceful and suits calm community fish.
Keep in a school of 8+.
Swimming zone and behavior
This fish uses the upper part of the aquarium, so leave enough surface space for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 8+.
Feeding
As an omnivore, Common Hatchetfish should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.
Natural habitat and origin
Origin: Guyana, Suriname, Peru.
Before adding this fish
- Plan for an aquarium of 90 L or larger / ≥ 80 cm (≥ 31.5 in) minimum length.
- Make room for its social group.
- Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
- Keep in a school of 8+.
- Offer a varied diet that matches this species.
Similar fish profiles
Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.
FAQ
How large does Common Hatchetfish get?
Common Hatchetfish reaches ≤ 6.5 cm (≤ 2.6 in).
What aquarium size does Common Hatchetfish need?
Use an aquarium of at least 90 L or larger / ≥ 80 cm (≥ 31.5 in) minimum length.
Is Common Hatchetfish peaceful?
Yes. Common Hatchetfish is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.
What temperature is suitable for Common Hatchetfish?
Keep it between 22 to 27 °C.
Should Common Hatchetfish be kept alone or in a group?
Common Hatchetfish: Keep in a school of 8+.