Albino Silver Hatchet (Gasteropelecus sternicla)

Probably the most commonly kept species of the popular surface dwelling Hatchetfish, the Silver Hatchet has a wide distribution in South America, ranging from the middle Amazon and Orinoco in Colombia and Peru, as well as the coastal waters of Brazil, Suriname and the Guyanas. The Albino Silver Hatchet or Gold Silver Hatchet variant has recently become available in the hobby being readily farmed in Asia. In the aquarium, they are hardy and peaceful schooling fish that will do best in groups of 8 or more. This species is shy by nature and fast moving, large, or aggressive tankmates should be avoided. Their tank should be kept tightly covered as they are easily spooked and likely to jump out if given the opportunity. As a surface feeder, they primarily eat tiny insects in the wild but will accept flake and other small floating foods like freeze dried bloodworms in the aquarium.