The Silver hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus levis) is a freshwater fish of the family Gasteropelecidae that grows up to 4 cm.
Description
The silver hatchetfish is a small characin of the hatchetfish family (Gasteropelecidae) from the Amazon basin in South America. The species reaches about 3.5 cm in the wild (slightly larger in the aquarium) and has a silvery body with a strikingly deep, hatchet-shaped keeled chest and an upturned mouth. It lives in schools just below the water surface. Thanks to the powerful pectoral muscles in the keeled chest it can leap from the water and 'fly' short distances to escape predators. The diet consists of worms, crustaceans and especially surface-caught insects.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver hatchetfish?
The Silver hatchetfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Silver hatchetfish live?
The Silver hatchetfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Silver hatchetfish get?
The Silver hatchetfish grows to a maximum of about 4 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Silver hatchetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver hatchetfish is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver hatchetfish edible?
The Silver hatchetfish is not usually eaten.
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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
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