Marbled Hatchetfish (Carnegiella strigata) Care Guide

A small surface-dwelling fish with a distinctive deep, laterally compressed body shaped like a hatchet.

Overview

Carnegiella strigata is a species in the family Gasteropelecidae. A small surface-dwelling fish with a distinctive deep, laterally compressed body shaped like a hatchet. Known for its ability to leap from the water and glide short distances using its large pectoral fins. Marbled brown and cream pattern provides camouflage among floating plants.

Taxonomy

Family: Gasteropelecidae
Genus: Carnegiella
Scientific name: Carnegiella strigata
Other names: Marbled Hatchet
Origin: South America, Amazon Basin

Habitat

Native to the Amazon basin and the Guianas. Inhabits slow forest streams and floodplain pools, occupying the uppermost water layer beneath overhanging vegetation. The deeply keeled chest houses enlarged pectoral muscles used to leap and glide above the surface to escape predators.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 5-7
GH: 2-12 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 3-5 cm
Lifespan: 2-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: top
Compatible tank mates: Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Cardinal Tetra, Ember Tetra
Avoid with: Oscar, Large Cichlids, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
Breeding difficulty: advanced