Marble Hatchetfish

Description

The Marble Hatchetfish (Carnegiella marthae) is an intriguing and visually striking species of freshwater fish native to the rivers and streams of South America, particularly in the Amazon and Orinoco basins. It is named for its unique, hatchet-shaped body, which is flat and wide, giving it the appearance of a small flying fish. The body of the Marble Hatchetfish is adorned with a silvery or translucent hue, often highlighted with subtle dark markings, which resemble marble patterns, giving the fish a distinctive and beautiful appearance.In the wild, Marble Hatchetfish are surface-dwelling fish, feeding on small insects, plankton, and other surface-dwelling prey. They are known for their remarkable ability to leap out of the water to catch prey or escape predators, making them a fascinating species to observe.In aquariums, Marble Hatchetfish should be kept in a tank with plenty of surface space, as they spend most of their time near the top of the water. They thrive in peaceful, well-planted tanks and should be kept in groups of at least five to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior. It’s important to provide a secure, covered aquarium, as these fish are known to jump, especially when startled.Growing to about 5 cm (2 inches), the Marble Hatchetfish is an ideal species for smaller to medium-sized community tanks. With their unique body shape, peaceful temperament, and active surface-dwelling habits, they make an attractive and engaging addition to aquariums.