Basic Facts about Hatchet fish

Habitat: Hatchet fish are found throughout the world, but mostly near South and Central America. They inhabit the middle strata of the ocean at 4500 meter in depth. The fish are mostly bred in captivity.

Behavior: Their bioluminescence camouflage protects them by imitating the ocean, with their bottom surface being invisible. This aquarium fish jumps out of the water to catch its food. They only eat food above their bodies since their eyes and mouths are located at the top.

Breeding: Marbled Hatchet fish lay eggs. The lighting must be kept subdued for spawning and peat extract can be added to darken the water. Small flying insects such as fruit flies or black mosquito encourage them to spawn. The female lays eggs on the roots and plants.  The parents must then be removed. After 30 hours, the fry hatch and swim in 5 days. They should eat finely powdered flaked food for 2 or 3 days.

Essential Hatchet fish facts for Aquarists

The aquarium requires a tight lid with no holes. Lively companions encourage them to become restless and jump out. Hatchet fish are not resilient in the aquarium. They need a school of six or more. A quarantine tank should be used for a few weeks to monitor wild caught hatchet fish before introducing them to the main tank. Marble Hatchet fish eat any kind of tropical fish food.