Hatchet Fish

Several types of hatchet fish form another little group of very popular fishes. The main apparent difference between them is their coloration, otherwise they require much the same in terms of care and feeding are surface-feeders and dwellers. They can rise progressively above the surface in much the same way as a hydrofoil and often skim over the surface of the water for up to 2m (6.5ft). This is because they have developed long pectoral fins that they can 'beat' like wings. Be sure to attach a very tightly fitting cover over any tank containing hatchet fishes. The most commonly seen species in the aquarium hobby is the silver hatchet fish (Gastropod stencil). It grows to about 6.5cm (2.6in) and thrives in soft, slightly acidic water Bata temperature of about 26°C (79°F).

The three-lined pencil fish (Monotonous trifocals) is a small, very peaceful fish from South America that grows to about (2in). The body shape is very long and slim, with a pointed snout and tiny mouth. The water should be kept at about 26°C (79°F) and he soft and very slightly acidic. The fish enjoys live foods, but it will eat frozen, as well as freeze-dried and flake food. Small tetras, linebackers Cordovans catfishes are ideal partners for this pencil fish.

Pencil fishes are very slim with pointed mouths. All require similar care and water conditions. They originate from the soft waters of the South American rainforests, s' o setup their tank accordingly. There are many species of pencil fishes available in the aquarium hobby; your choice will depend very much on what your dealer can supply.

Blackwinged Hatchet Fish

This hatchet fish has originated from South America, they are found in the streams of Orinoco and Negro span. Blackwinged hatchet fish is very quiet in nature and she behaves well with other fishes in the aquarium. You should put small floating plants in your aquarium and be careful about closing all the holes at the top of the aquarium because this fish jumps to catch the insect flying outside, as she will see outside.

Pigmy Hatchet Fish

This species of hatchet fish is resident of Peru. It grows up to the size of 2.2 cm or o.9 inches. This fish has very peaceful nature and behaves well with the other fishes of the same aquarium.

Marbled Hatchet Fish

This hatchet fish is very small near about 35mm in length. This fish is originated from South America. It is a famous aquarium fish, it has a golden color line which extends from its eye to its caudal fin. In diet this hatchet fish prefer omnivores and she needs variety in her diet like live or frozen food, vegetables etc. marbled hatchet fish is very quiet in nature.

Common hatchet Fish

Common hatchet fish is also known as river hatchet fish, it belongs to fresh water hatchet fish family. It is originated from South America in the Peruvian and middle Amazon etc. It grows up to the size of 2.5 inches or 6.5 cm. The belly of this fish is very large just like hatchet from there it gets it name hatchet fish. The nature of this fish is very quiet towards other aquarium fishes but sometimes it quarrels with each other (same species). Be careful about closing all the holes at the top of the aquarium because this fish jumps to catch the insect flying outside, as she will see outside.