The Marbled Hatchetfish, scientifically known as Carnegiella strigata, is a small and intriguing freshwater species native to the slow-moving waters and flooded forests of the Amazon Basin. Renowned for its distinctive body shape and peaceful temperament, it is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts, especially those with a penchant for community tanks featuring top-dwelling species.

Marbled Hatchetfish are best known for their unique, hatchet-shaped body, which is primarily adapted for life at the water's surface. Their ventral profile is deeply keeled, and they possess large, muscular pectoral fins that enable powerful bursts of speed. The dorsal surface typically displays a beautiful marbled pattern of dark patches against a silvery background, which helps them blend into the water's surface when viewed from above, providing camouflage from predators.

In the aquarium, Marbled Hatchetfish require a setup that caters to their arboreal lifestyle. They are surface dwellers, so it’s crucial to provide a tank with a tightly fitting lid as they are known to jump, especially if startled or in pursuit of prey. The tank should also include floating plants or those with leaves that reach the surface to offer shelter and mimic their natural habitat. The water should be calm with little to no current and well-oxygenated.

Water quality is important for maintaining the health of Carnegiella strigata. The water should be soft to moderately hard and slightly acidic to neutral. Regular maintenance, including periodic water changes and effective filtration, is necessary to keep the environment clean and stable, as they can be sensitive to poor water conditions.

The diet of the Marbled Hatchetfish primarily consists of insects and small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they should be fed a variety of foods that float at the water's surface to accommodate their feeding habits. This can include floating pellets, flake food, and live or frozen foods such as mosquito larvae and daphnia. Providing a diverse diet will help ensure they receive all necessary nutrients and maintain good health.

Breeding Marbled Hatchetfish in captivity can be challenging. They are egg scatterers, releasing their eggs among floating vegetation. The breeding tank should be set up with soft, acidic water and include plenty of floating plants to encourage spawning. After spawning, it is advisable to remove the adult fish to prevent them from eating the eggs.

Overall, the Marbled Hatchetfish is a fascinating and attractive addition to the upper layers of a peaceful community aquarium. Their unique appearance and interesting behaviors make them a delightful choice for aquarists looking to diversify the species composition of their tanks.