Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus levis)

Description

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.

Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus levis)

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Out of stock,  

$8.00


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    Description

    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.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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