Fin's Fish Guide
The Elongate hatchetfish (Triportheus elongatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Triportheidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The elongate hatchetfish is a characin of the family Triportheidae from the Amazon basin in South America. The species has an elongate, laterally compressed, silvery body with a keeled chest and large pectoral fins, characteristic of the hatchet characins. It lives in schools in rivers and floodplains and often stays near the water surface. As an omnivore it feeds on insects that fall onto the water, fruits, seeds and small zooplankton. It is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elongate hatchetfish?
The Elongate hatchetfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Keeled breast and large pectoral fins; surface shoal that eats insects fallen onto the water.
Where does the Elongate hatchetfish live?
The Elongate hatchetfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin in South America; rivers and floodplains.
How big does the Elongate hatchetfish get?
The Elongate hatchetfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Elongate hatchetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Elongate hatchetfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Elongate hatchetfish edible?
Yes, the Elongate hatchetfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Triportheus
More from the family Triportheidae
Want the complete picture on the Elongate hatchetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elongate hatchetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.