Fin's Fish Guide
The Narrow hatchetfish (Triportheus angulatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Triportheidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The narrow hatchetfish is a characin of the family Triportheidae from the Amazon basin in South America. The species has a laterally compressed, silvery body with a strongly keeled, forward-projecting chest and large pectoral fins, characteristic of the hatchet characins. It lives in schools over sandy bottoms of rivers and is mainly active by day. As an omnivore it feeds on fruits and seeds, insects and small zooplankton. It is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Narrow hatchetfish?
The Narrow hatchetfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strongly keeled, projecting breast with large pectoral fins; schooling fruit and seed eater.
Where does the Narrow hatchetfish live?
The Narrow hatchetfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin in South America; sandy bottoms of rivers.
How big does the Narrow hatchetfish get?
The Narrow hatchetfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 14 cm.
Is the Narrow hatchetfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Narrow hatchetfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Narrow hatchetfish edible?
Yes, the Narrow 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 Narrow hatchetfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Narrow hatchetfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.