Dwarf hatchetfish

Carnegiella myersi

Wild range: Amazon basin (South America)

At a glance: Dwarf hatchetfish care

Compiled reference information. Review the care notes and original sources below.

What temperature is listed for Dwarf hatchetfish?

The compiled profile lists 24.0–28.0 °C for Dwarf hatchetfish (Carnegiella myersi). Check the original sources below for context and differing recommendations.

What tank size is listed for Dwarf hatchetfish?

The profile lists a minimum tank volume of 10.0 US gallons (38.0 liters). Volume alone does not establish suitability; consider dimensions, group size and other inhabitants alongside the full care notes.

What pH is listed for Dwarf hatchetfish?

The compiled profile lists a pH of 6.0–7.5. Review the cited care sources alongside the other water parameters in this profile.

Natural habitat

Hatchetfish inhabit the slow-moving waters of the Amazon basin, often found near the surface, where they feed on insects and other small organisms. Their unique hatchet shape assists them in making quick movements to escape from predators.

Where they are found

Carnegiella myersi is native to freshwater streams in Peru. The species is found in locations with dense cover formed by aquatic plants and debris, which provide necessary shelter and breeding grounds.

Aquarium care

To provide optimal care for Marbled Hatchetfish, it is essential to maintain stable water conditions with gentle flow and plenty of surface cover from floating plants. A minimum tank size of 60 cm is recommended for a small group, as they are social fish that thrive in the company of their own kind.

Feeding

Pygmy Hatchetfish are primarily carnivorous. Their diet should consist of high-quality flake food, micro-pellets, and small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae. A varied diet is crucial to ensure their health and wellbeing.

Compatibility

Pygmy Hatchetfish are very peaceful and thrive in community tanks with other small, calm fish. It is advisable to avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive species as they may become stressed or preyed upon. Suitable companions include other small tetras and peaceful species.

Breeding

Breeding Marbled Hatchetfish can be challenging as they scatter their eggs across the surface. A quiet breeding tank with plenty of floating plants is ideal for spawning. To prevent adult fish from eating the eggs, it is often necessary to remove them after spawning.

Sources

Compiled from multiple independent care sheets — not copied from a single site.