Silver Hatchetfish – Thoracocharax stellatus – 2 to 3 cm

Thoracocharax stellatus – Silver Hatchetfish

The Silver Hatchetfish (Thoracocharax stellatus) is a freshwater fish native to South America. It has a particularly distinctive appearance, with a strongly compressed silver body and a deep, developed ventral region that gives it its characteristic hatchet-like shape.

The specimens offered here are approximately 2 to 3 cm.

Adult Size

The Silver Hatchetfish generally reaches approximately 4 to 5 cm as an adult.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 6 to 7.5
KH: 2 to 10 °dKH
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

Nitrite should remain undetectable. Clean, stable and properly filtered water is important for keeping this species in good condition.

What Size Aquarium for Silver Hatchetfish?

This species mainly occupies the upper levels of the aquarium. An aquarium at least 60 cm long provides a suitable basis for keeping a small shoal.

Part of the surface should remain open to provide plenty of swimming space. Vegetation, including floating plants, can also provide sheltered areas and help the fish feel more secure.

A securely fitted lid is essential. Hatchetfish are excellent jumpers and can easily leave an open aquarium, particularly when startled.

Behaviour and Shoaling

Thoracocharax stellatus is a peaceful and social fish. It should ideally be kept in a shoal of at least 10 individuals. Where space allows, an even larger group is preferable.

It can live alongside many other peaceful species occupying different levels of the aquarium, provided their requirements are compatible.

Feeding

In the wild, the Silver Hatchetfish feeds on small insects and other invertebrates found close to the water surface.

In the aquarium, it generally accepts flakes and small pellets suitable for the size of its mouth. Small frozen or live foods can also be offered as part of a varied diet.

As this species feeds mainly near the surface, it is important to ensure that enough food remains accessible in this area.

Breeding

The Silver Hatchetfish is an egg-laying species. Breeding is relatively uncommon in the home aquarium and requires suitable conditions.

The adults provide no parental care for the eggs or young.

Origin

Thoracocharax stellatus originates from South America, where it inhabits freshwater environments and spends much of its time close to the surface.

Lifespan

The Silver Hatchetfish can live for approximately 5 years in an aquarium when kept under suitable conditions.

Never Release Aquarium Fish into the Wild

Thoracocharax stellatus must never be released into a river, pond, lake or any other natural environment.