Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus levis) Graceful, shimmering and unlike any other aquarium fish, the Silver Hatchetfish is a fascinating surface-dwelling species that brings constant movement to the top of the aquarium. Its distinctive hatchet-shaped body and schooling behaviour make it an excellent addition to peaceful planted community tanks. Quick Facts Scientific name: Gasteropelecus levis Common name: Silver Hatchetfish Current size: Please refer to the selected size option Adult size: Approximately 6–7 cm Tank size: 75L+ recommended Difficulty: 🟡 Moderate Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish Social needs: Best kept in groups of 6 or more Is this for you? ✔️ Perfect if: You want to add activity to the surface of your aquarium. You keep peaceful South American community fish. You have a planted aquarium with open swimming space. You can provide a tightly covered aquarium. ❌ Avoid if: Your aquarium has no lid or has large gaps. You keep aggressive or boisterous fish. You want a species that spends time near the bottom. You intend to keep only one or two individuals. Why choose Silver Hatchetfish? The Silver Hatchetfish is instantly recognisable thanks to its deep, hatchet-shaped body and brilliant metallic silver colouration. Adapted for life at the water's surface, it spends almost all of its time gliding effortlessly beneath floating plants while watching for insects. Its enlarged chest muscles allow it to leap from the water when startled—a remarkable adaptation in the wild that helps it escape predators. For aquarium keepers, this means a secure lid is absolutely essential. When maintained in a healthy school, Silver Hatchetfish become confident, active fish that occupy an area of the aquarium often left unused by other species, creating a beautifully balanced display. Benefits Unique surface-dwelling behaviour Brilliant reflective silver colouration Excellent schooling fish Ideal companion for peaceful South American aquariums Safe with aquarium plants Adds movement to the upper water level Care made simple Temperature: 24–28°C pH: 5.5–7.5 Diet: Floating micro pellets, crushed flakes, insects, frozen mosquito larvae, daphnia and brine shrimp Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered Substrate: Any aquarium substrate is suitable Setup: Floating plants, subdued lighting and generous open surface area Always use a tightly fitting lid, as Silver Hatchetfish are exceptional jumpers. Maintain groups of at least six to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behaviour. Pairs perfectly with Cardinal Tetras Rummy Nose Tetras Corydoras Otocinclus Apistogramma NTA Insight: The biggest mistake people make with Silver Hatchetfish is underestimating how well they can jump. Even a small opening around airline tubing or filter pipes can be enough for them to escape. A secure lid is every bit as important as good water quality. Once settled into a planted aquarium with floating cover, they become one of the most elegant schooling fish available. FAQ How large do Silver Hatchetfish grow? Adults generally reach around 6–7 cm in length. Are Silver Hatchetfish good jumpers? Yes. They are among the best jumpers in the freshwater aquarium hobby. A tightly fitting lid with no gaps is essential. How many should I keep? They should be kept in groups of at least six, although larger schools display more natural behaviour and greater confidence. Can they live with shrimp? They are generally compatible with adult shrimp, although very small shrimplets may occasionally be eaten. What do Silver Hatchetfish eat? They prefer foods that float or remain near the surface, including floating micro pellets, crushed flakes and frozen or live insect-based foods. Are they suitable for planted aquariums? Absolutely. They thrive in planted aquariums with floating vegetation and subdued lighting that replicates their natural habitat. Are Silver Hatchetfish suitable for beginners? They are suitable for beginners who can maintain stable water quality and provide a securely covered aquarium. How long do Silver Hatchetfish live? With excellent care, Silver Hatchetfish typically live for 4–6 years.
