Silver Hatchetfish - (Gasteropelecus levis)

🐟 Silver Hatchetfish – (Gasteropelecus levis) – Graceful Surface-Dweller

The Silver Hatchetfish is a small, peaceful, and uniquely shaped freshwater species named for its hatchet-like body. Native to slow-moving streams and calm backwaters of South America, this fish is prized for its shimmering silver coloration and calm, schooling behavior. Its laterally compressed body and upturned mouth are adapted for surface feeding, and it’s known for its ability to make short gliding jumps to escape predators in the wild.

Perfect for peaceful community tanks, Silver Hatchetfish thrive best in groups and in calm, well-covered aquariums to prevent jumping.

🔎 Quick Facts – Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus levis)

• 📛 Common Names: Silver Hatchetfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Gasteropelecus levis
• 🌍 Origin: South America – Amazon and Orinoco river basins
• 🎨 Appearance: Deeply compressed, hatchet-shaped body with metallic silver shine and translucent fins
• 📏 Max Size: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Common in the aquarium trade

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful, ideal for community tanks
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best kept in groups of 6+
• ⚠️ Known jumper – tight-fitting lid is essential

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🌿 Provide floating plants for cover
• 🌊 Gentle filtration with minimal surface disturbance
• 💡 Dim to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters – Silver Hatchetfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 5.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous (Surface Feeder)

• 🦗 Small live or frozen insects
• 🪱 Bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp
• 🍽️ High-quality micro pellets for surface feeders

📋 Silver Hatchetfish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Silver Hatchetfish is a schooling surface dweller with a unique body shape and metallic sheen, perfect for adding elegance and movement to peaceful community aquariums—just remember a tight lid is a must.