Carnegiella Strigata

Datasheet

General Description

Carnegiella strigata, commonly known as the Marbled Hatchetfish, is an enduringly popular species in the aquarium hobby. It is distinguished by its larger adult size and dark, marbled color pattern with dark and light stripes running diagonally across the body below the lateral line. This species is typically found in the Amazon basin exhibiting variations in body depth and fin characteristics.

Aquarium Setup

The Marbled Hatchetfish should ideally be housed in a heavily planted aquarium with a dark substrate and patches of floating vegetation to mimic its natural habitat. Adding driftwood branches and dried leaf litter can promote the growth of microorganisms beneficial as a food source for fry. Care should be taken to ensure a tightly-fitting aquarium cover as these fish may jump when startled.

Behaviour

Known for its peaceful nature, the Marbled Hatchetfish is not recommended for community tanks due to its small size and timid demeanor. It thrives in the presence of similarly-sized, peaceful characids and smaller callichthyid or loricariid catfish. This species is gregarious and should ideally be kept in groups of 10 or more to disperse any aggression and encourage natural behavior.

Feeding and Diet

Primarily a predator, C. strigata feeds on terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, zooplankton, and small live or frozen fare like Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, and grindal worms. Supplementing its diet with small insects or vegetable matter can enhance its nutritional intake. In captivity, this species readily accepts dried foods but should be provided with a varied diet.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Information on the reproduction of Marbled Hatchetfish is not documented. Some specimens may exhibit sexual dimorphism, with adult females growing larger and becoming rounder-bodied than males.

Habitat and Distribution

Marbled Hatchetfish are exclusive inhabitants of blackwater environments, particularly in the igapó and igarapé habitats of the Amazon basin. Their distribution spans Amazonian Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, along with the Río Orinoco system in Venezuela and some coastal drainages in Guyana and Suriname. Most specimens available in the ornamental trade are collected from the Rio Negro basin in Brazil.