Water parameters
Overview
The black-winged hatchetfish is a small member of the genus Carnegiella. Dark lines run along the deep chest edge of its silvery, hatchet-shaped body; its long pectoral fins are dark-toned. It comes from blackwaters and is more sensitive to water parameters than the marbled hatchetfish. Most fish sold are wild-caught; careful acclimation is needed in the first weeks.
Tank Setup
- At least 60 liters for a group of 6–10; a large surface area.
- 24–28°C, pH 5–6.5, very soft water.
- Floating plants, dim light and gentle flow.
- A tight-fitting lid is essential.
Diet
It takes food only from the surface. Fine floating flakes, frozen and live mosquito larvae, fruit flies, brine shrimp and daphnia are suitable. It does not eat sinking food; its belly line should be checked regularly.
Behavior and Compatibility
Very peaceful and shy. It should be kept in a calm, not overcrowded aquarium with small species. It does not harm other species and can be kept safely with shrimp.
Good companions: small tetras, pencilfish, micro rasboras, pygmy corydoras, dwarf cichlids.
Avoid: active and greedy species, fish that are aggressive at the surface, species that need hard water.
A short profile for this species
The Black-winged Hatchetfish page has the basics, but the sections below have not been written yet. If you keep this species, write a section from your own experience; it will be published under your name after editor approval.
Tank mates
This list is calculated automatically from the species profile and grows as new species are added to the catalog. Try it in the planner for a definite answer.
Usually compatible
Flame Tetra
Blackfin Corydoras
Polystictus Corydoras
Emerald Cory
Porthole Catfish
Keyhole Cichlid
Cupid Cichlid
Geophagus altifrons
Geophagus surinamensis
Cryptocoryne Parva
Should not be kept together
Hobbyist notes
Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.
Change history and contributors
- Page created · October 16, 2026