"Discover the beauty and grace of Gasteropelecus sternicla, the Silver Hatchetfish. Perfect for your aquarium, these unique fish glid"

- Water Conditions: Silver Hatchetfish thrive in freshwater aquariums with a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C - 28°C). They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. It's essential to maintain good water quality and perform regular water changes to ensure their well-being.

- Tank Size and Setup: Provide a spacious tank with a minimum capacity of 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small group of Silver Hatchetfish. These fish appreciate a well-planted aquarium with floating plants or tall decorations that mimic their natural habitat. A tight-fitting lid is crucial as they have a tendency to jump.

- Tank Mates: Silver Hatchetfish are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other peaceful species that occupy different areas of the tank. Ideal tank mates include small tetras, rasboras, dwarf gouramis, and peaceful bottom-dwelling species like corydoras catfish. Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.

- Feeding Habit: Silver Hatchetfish are omnivorous and have a unique feeding behavior. They primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates from the water surface. In captivity, they readily accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake or pellet food, freeze-dried or frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects. Offer a balanced diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

- Care and Behavior: Silver Hatchetfish are generally hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner aquarists. They are shoaling fish and feel more secure when kept in groups of five or more. Provide a well-maintained aquarium with good filtration and regular water changes. Ensure the tank has plenty of swimming space at the water surface.

- Behavior and Tank Requirements: Silver Hatchetfish are known for their unique ability to glide above the water surface. They have specialized pectoral fins that enable them to perform this behavior. It's important to provide enough open swimming space near the water surface to accommodate their gliding movements.

- Breeding: Breeding Silver Hatchetfish in the aquarium can be challenging. They are egg scatterers, and breeding requires specific conditions, such as a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water and fine-leaved plants for the female to deposit her eggs. Dedicated breeding efforts and specific breeding setups are often required to successfully breed these fish.

In conclusion, the Silver Hatchetfish (Gasteropelecus sternicla) is a captivating and graceful addition to your aquarium. With their unique gliding behavior and silver coloration, they bring a touch of elegance to any aquatic setup. Provide them with suitable water conditions, compatible tank mates, and a well-balanced diet to ensure their health and longevity. Enjoy observing their gliding movements and peaceful nature as they become a beautiful centerpiece in your aquarium.