Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackwing hatchetfish (Carnegiella marthae) is a freshwater fish of the family Gasteropelecidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The blackwing hatchetfish is a small hatchetfish (Gasteropelecidae) from South America. The species is small and has a strikingly deep, hatchet-shaped breast driven by strong muscles, and silvery flanks with a dark line. It lives in schools just under the water surface of quiet blackwater tributaries and creeks. At the surface it snaps mainly at insects, alongside small crustaceans. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackwing hatchetfish?
The Blackwing hatchetfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Deep, hatchet-shaped breast with strong muscles; small surface-schooling fish of blackwater.
Where does the Blackwing hatchetfish live?
The Blackwing hatchetfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America; calm blackwater tributaries and creeks.
How big does the Blackwing hatchetfish get?
The Blackwing hatchetfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Blackwing hatchetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackwing hatchetfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackwing hatchetfish edible?
The Blackwing hatchetfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Carnegiella
More from the family Gasteropelecidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackwing hatchetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackwing hatchetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.