Dark Marble Hatchet Fish 3.5cm

Dark Marble Hatchet Fish Vesca

The Dark Marble Hatchet Fish is a stunning and unique top-dwelling species that adds a fascinating dynamic to smaller aquariums. Their unusual appearance, peaceful nature, and striking coloration make them a prized addition for those looking to add something out of the ordinary to their community tanks. Though not commonly found in the aquarium hobby, their captivating look makes them a sought-after species for enthusiasts.

The Dark Marble Hatchet Fish is recognised by its classic hatchet-shaped body, which tapers down to a narrow tail and showcases an elegant, streamlined profile. The base body colour is a pale silver, almost translucent, enhanced by bold, dark marble-like patterns that swirl across their body, giving them their name. The intricate marbling creates a stunning contrast, particularly when kept against a dark background or densely planted tank. They possess long pectoral fins, which they use to glide through the water's surface, making them a mesmerising sight to watch.

These fish are strictly top-dwellers and are known for their tendency to leap from the water, so providing a tight-fitting lid is essential. They generally grow to a maximum of 3.5 cm and exhibit schooling behaviour, making them a great candidate for nano and planted aquariums. Breeding in the home aquarium is uncommon due to their difficult environmental requirements and lack of clear sexual dimorphism.

Tank Recommendations for your Dark Marble Hatchet Fish Vesca
The Dark Marble Hatchet Fish thrives in aquariums of at least 75 litres, though larger tanks are recommended to house a school of six or more. A densely planted tank with floating plants will not only help them feel secure but also accentuate their intricate marbled patterns.

They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures between 24 - 28°C and a pH of 5.0 - 7.0. Hardscape materials that alter the water's chemistry should be avoided to maintain optimal conditions. As a surface-dwelling species, substrate choice is not a primary concern, but creating a natural, dark environment will enhance their striking appearance.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Dark Marble Hatchet Fish is peaceful and will do well with a variety of small, non-aggressive community fish. However, due to their active nature and tendency to feed primarily at the surface, they may outcompete slower species during feeding times.

Usually Compatible

Various tetras such as cardinal, Rummynose, kerri, cochus blue, and more.

Sometime Compatible

Angelfish, dwarf cichlids such as rams, giant danio, and rainbow fish, which might outcompete the black-winged hatchetfish. Almost all small peaceful community fish would be fine in an average aquarium setting.

Rarely Compatible

Shrimp and fry would be an easy meal for hatchetfish. Large cichlids such as oscars should absolutely be avoided as they would prey on the hatchetfish.

Feeding your Dark Marble Hatchet Fish Vesca

These hatchetfish will take a wide range of aquarium foods given to them, including pellets, flakes, frozen, and live foods. When kept in a school, it's great to see their pack feeding as they hammer the surface of the water when feeding. Because of this, a primarily surface-dwelling mentality, a floating or slowly sinking food is best fed to them.