Common Name: Marbled Hatchet
Scientific Name: Carnegiella strigata
Other Names: Marbled Hatchetfish
The Marbled Hatchet is a wild-caught hatchetfish from South America and one of the most popular surface-dwelling fish in the hobby. Marbled hatchetfish have a deep, keel-shaped body and a delicate marbled pattern on their sides. Their straight back and upturned mouth are built for life at the surface. It is an active, interesting fish that adds movement and character to the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution:
Carnegiella strigata is found in the Amazon basin and the Guianas, where it lives at the surface of slow-moving, often blackwater streams and flooded forest. Blackwater habitats are stained brown by tannins from decaying leaves and wood, and the water is typically very soft and acidic.
Size and Lifespan:
It reaches about 1.5 inches (3.5 cm). With proper care they commonly live 3-5 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Marbled hatchetfish are surface feeders that eat small insects in the wild. In the aquarium, offer flakes, small floating foods, fruit flies and frozen bloodworms. They are peaceful schooling fish and should be kept in groups of six or more. Feed a varied diet and remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Marbled hatchetfish are rarely bred in aquariums. They are egg scatterers, often spawning among the roots of floating plants.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a group. Provide floating plants, gentle water movement and, most importantly, a tight-fitting lid, as hatchetfish are expert jumpers. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 5.5-7.0 and soft water. Efficient filtration and regular partial water changes are essential to maintain water quality, and new arrivals should be acclimated slowly.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Good tank mates include small, peaceful fish such as tetras, pencilfish, corydoras and dwarf cichlids. Avoid large or boisterous fish that may intimidate them. As with any aquarium, introduce new fish carefully and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. Hatchetfish can be delicate when first imported and need a tight lid, clean water and a group of their own kind. It is well suited to aquarists with some experience who can maintain stable water conditions.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 5.5-7.0
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General Hardness (GH): 1-8 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 1-4 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Hatchetfish stay near the surface, so floating plants help them feel secure.
- A tight-fitting lid is essential, as they can jump out through small gaps.
- Fun fact: Hatchetfish can leap from the water and glide short distances using powerful pectoral fin muscles.
The Marbled Hatchet is a charming surface-dwelling schooling fish for peaceful planted and blackwater aquariums. With the right setup and care, it will be a rewarding addition for many years.
