Fin's Fish Guide
The Common hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla) is a freshwater fish of the family Gasteropelecidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The river hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla) is a small freshwater fish of the family Gasteropelecidae from northern South America. The species owes its name to its strongly keeled, deeply projecting breast that gives the body a hatchet shape; it reaches only a few centimetres. With its large, wing-like pectoral fins it can briefly 'fly' out of the water to catch flying insects or escape predators. It lives in groups at the surface of slow-flowing creeks and swamps and feeds on worms, crustaceans and insects. The species is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common hatchetfish?
The Common hatchetfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strongly keeled, hatchet-shaped breast; can briefly 'fly' out of the water with its pectoral fins.
Where does the Common hatchetfish live?
The Common hatchetfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Slow-flowing creeks and swamps of northern South America.
How big does the Common hatchetfish get?
The Common hatchetfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm.
Is the Common hatchetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Common hatchetfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Common hatchetfish edible?
The Common 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 Gasteropelecus
More from the family Gasteropelecidae
Want the complete picture on the Common hatchetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common hatchetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.