Blackwing Hatchetfish

Description

The Black Wing Hatchetfish (Carnegiella strigata) is a fascinating and distinctive freshwater species native to the slow-moving rivers and streams of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. Named for its unique, wing-like pectoral fins, which give it the appearance of a small, flying fish, the Black Wing Hatchetfish is both striking and graceful in appearance.In the wild, Black Wing Hatchetfish are surface-dwelling fish that inhabit calm waters with dense vegetation. They are adapted for life near the water’s surface, where they feed on small insects, plankton, and other surface-dwelling prey. Their distinctive shape allows them to leap out of the water to avoid predators or capture prey, mimicking the appearance of a ‘flying’ fish.In aquariums, Black Wing Hatchetfish should be kept in a tank with a well-covered top, as they are known to jump. They thrive in peaceful, well-planted tanks with plenty of surface space, as they spend most of their time near the water’s surface. While they are generally peaceful, they may not do well with larger or aggressive species that could intimidate them.Growing to around 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches), the Black Wing Hatchetfish is well-suited for smaller to medium-sized community aquariums. Its unique appearance, active nature, and ability to glide through the water make it a captivating addition to any aquarium, especially for aquarists who appreciate surface-dwelling species.