More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 60 litres / 15.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 2.8cm / 1.10inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 4.0-7.0 |
General Description
The Carnegiella Marthae, commonly known as the Blackwing Hatchetfish, belongs to the family Gasteropelecidae within the order Characiformes. These hatchetfish are characterized by their heavily-keeled body shape, resembling a hatchet head. They are small in size, reaching up to 2.8 cm. These fish are peaceful but not ideal for community tanks due to their timid nature.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, a 60-liter tank is recommended for the Blackwing Hatchetfish. The aquarium should be heavily planted with a dark substrate and patches of floating vegetation. Driftwood branches and dried leaf litter can be added to facilitate microbe colonies. Water conditions should have a pH range of 4.0-7.0, hardness between 18-179ppm, and a temperature of 20-28°C. It is important to ensure a tightly-fitting cover as these hatchetfish may jump when startled.
Behaviour
Blackwing Hatchetfish are gregarious animals that thrive in groups of 10 or more. They tend to inhabit the middle-to-upper regions of the tank and do not actively prey on fry. These hatchetfish are best kept with similarly-sized, peaceful characids, small catfish species, or as dither fish for dwarf cichlids.
Feeding and Diet
In their natural habitat, Blackwing Hatchetfish primarily feed on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates at the water's surface. In aquariums, they accept dried foods but should also be offered small live and frozen fare such as Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, and small insects like fruit flies and young crickets. It is recommended to feed live foods that are suitable in size and provide a variety in their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Details on the reproduction of Carnegiella Marthae are unrecorded. There are indications that some specimens grow larger and become rounder-bodied, likely representing adult females. The species may exhibit sexual dimorphism in size and body shape as they mature.
Habitat and Distribution
Blackwing Hatchetfish are stenotypic inhabitants of blackwater environments. They are found in the upper Orinoco drainage in Venezuela, the Rio Negro drainage in Amazonian Brazil, and possibly in Colombia. These fish prefer acidic, soft water with minimal conductivity, often dwelling among riparian vegetation, fallen branches, and leaf litter in habitats like the igapó and igarapé. During the annual wet season, they move upstream into flooded forests for feeding and reproduction.