"Spotted Hatchetfish" "Colombia"
Gasteropelecus maculatus

Description

Gasteropelecus maculatus, commonly known as the “Spotted Silver Hatchetfish” or “Spotfin Hatchetfish,” is a peaceful and captivating freshwater fish species native to South America. Here’s a summarized bullet point list of care tips for Gasteropelecus maculatus, including its maximum size:

Tank Requirements:
– Tank size: A minimum of 20 gallons is suitable for a small group (6-8) of Spotted Silver Hatchetfish.
– Filtration: Use a reliable filter to maintain water quality and provide gentle water flow.
– Water parameters: Temperature 75-82°F (24-28°C), pH 6.0-7.5, hardness 2-10 dGH.
– Substrate: Use fine gravel or sand as the substrate.

Feeding:
– Spotted Silver Hatchetfish are mainly carnivorous and prefer small insects and crustaceans in their natural habitat.
– Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality flakes, pellets, and small live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and mosquito larvae.

Tankmates:
– They are peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish.
– Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive species that may intimidate or prey on them.

Decor and Environment:
– Provide plenty of plants, floating vegetation, and open swimming spaces.
– Hatchetfish are known for their ability to leap out of the water, so use a tight-fitting lid to prevent them from jumping out of the tank.
– Dim lighting can help reduce stress and mimic their natural environment.

Water Maintenance:
– Perform regular water changes (20-25% weekly) to maintain water quality and remove waste.
– Keep the water well-filtered to ensure good water circulation.

Behavior:
– Spotted Silver Hatchetfish have a unique and fascinating behavior of swimming near the water surface and leaping to catch insects.
– They are schooling fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least 6-8 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

Healthcare:
– Monitor water parameters regularly using test kits to ensure optimal conditions.
– Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank to prevent disease transmission.

Breeding:
– Breeding Spotted Silver Hatchetfish in captivity is challenging due to their specific requirements.
– Provide a separate breeding tank with very soft and acidic water, as well as floating plants for potential spawning.

Observation and Enjoyment:
– Spend time observing and enjoying the unique behavior of Spotted Silver Hatchetfish.
– Create a peaceful and well-maintained environment to ensure their well-being.

Max Size:
– The maximum size for Gasteropelecus maculatus (Spotted Silver Hatchetfish) is around 3.5 inches (9 centimeters) in length.

By keeping their maximum size in mind, you can plan a suitable and thriving aquarium for Spotted Silver Hatchetfish and provide them with an environment where they can display their best behaviors, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable life in captivity.