Giant Hatchetfish

Adults of this species can reach up to 7 cm in length. Their body has the characteristic hatchet-like shape with a pronounced keel-shaped pectoral region. The fins are large, especially the pectoral fins, which resemble wings. Their coloration is silvery or grayish. The pattern includes a dark stripe running along the lateral line from head to tail, and a black outline along the lower part of the body.

The Platinum Hatchetfish inhabits the Amazon, Orinoco, and Paraná river basins in Brazil and Peru. The fish prefer slow-moving waters, floodplain lakes, and swamps with dense riparian vegetation overhanging the water. In nature, they stay in the upper layers of the water, where they find refuge among tree roots, fallen branches, and organic substrate.

These fish are schooling by nature, preferring groups of 5 or more individuals. They are peaceful and do not cause problems for other aquarium inhabitants. However, due to their defenselessness against aggressive and large fish, they should not be kept together in the same tank.

Platinum Hatchetfish constantly stay near the water surface, so they require significant swimming space. When choosing an aquarium, surface area is more important than tank height. For a group of 5 fish, a volume of 150 liters is considered optimal. The ability of these fish to jump out of the water makes a lid essential. The aquarium setup does not play a significant role. However, when decorating, especially when using live plants, excessive overgrowth of the water surface should be avoided. Successful long-term keeping largely depends on the aquarist's ability to maintain stable water hydrochemistry. Key factors include the uninterrupted operation of the filtration system and regular weekly aquarium maintenance, which involves removing organic waste and replacing part of the water with fresh water with pH and dGH values as close as possible.

This species is omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods intended for aquarium fish. It is important to note that feeding occurs exclusively at the water surface. Floating foods are preferred.

Breeding in captivity is considered a complex process. Spawning requires a separate aquarium with soft, acidic water (pH around 6.0) and subdued lighting. Eggs are laid among fine-leaved plants. The incubation period lasts about 30 hours, and fry begin free-swimming five days after hatching. Infusoria are used as a first food.

The species is sensitive to sudden changes in water hydrochemical parameters and the accumulation of organic waste. If keeping conditions are violated, the fish are susceptible to bacterial infections and fungal lesions. Prevention includes weekly partial water changes, maintaining stable filtration, and avoiding overfeeding, which rapidly degrades water quality.

When purchasing, choose active fish without visible damage to fins or scales. It is important to assess the behavior of individuals in the store: healthy hatchetfish stay in a school in the upper water layer and show caution. Avoid specimens with signs of emaciation, skin damage, or unnatural behavior, as these fish are extremely sensitive to stress during transport and changes in conditions.