Myersi Pygmy Hatchet

Myersi Pygmy Hatchet (Carnegiella myersi)

The Myersi Pygmy Hatchet, also known as Myers' Hatchetfish, is a fascinating small freshwater fish with a unique slender body resembling a hatchet. They have an elongated, deep body and large pectoral fins that enable them to glide above the water's surface. They exhibit a shimmering golden-brown color with a black horizontal stripe running from their gill cover to the base of their tail. Their fins are clear with a slight orange tint.

Myersi Pygmy Hatchet are a peaceful and timid fish, making them great additions to a community tank. They grow to approximately 1.0 to 1.2 inches in length and should be kept in schools of at least 6-8 individuals. These fish are surface dwellers, preferring the top level of the aquarium.

They are compatible with peaceful fish species such as Cherry Barbs, Dwarf Gouramis, Neon Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Pencilfish, Kuhli Loach, and other Hatchetfish. They should not be kept with large, fast-swimming, or aggressive fish like Danios or Barbs, as they may outcompete the Myersi Pygmy Hatchet for food and cause unnecessary stress.

In the wild, Myersi Pygmy Hatchet are insectivores, feeding on insects and their larvae. In the aquarium, they will thrive on a diet of small insects, larvae, and other invertebrates, as well as high-quality flakes, floating micro-pellets, freeze-dried, and live foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.

To create a comfortable environment for Myersi Pygmy Hatchet, it is essential to have a well-planted tank with floating plants that offer shelter and create a dimly lit atmosphere. By covering a significant portion of the water's surface with floating plants, you can help them feel more at ease. A dark substrate and subdued lighting will help to reduce their skittishness.

A suitable tank habitat for Myersi Pygmy Hatchetfish should have a minimum size of 20 gallons, while an ideal community aquarium should be at least 30 gallons. The water parameters should be maintained at a pH of 5.5-7.5, hardness between 5-19 dGH, and a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C).

Make sure the tank cover is very tightly fitting, as it is capable of clearing several meters in a single jump.