{"product_id":"freshwater-fish-for-sale-uk-spotfin-hatchetfish-thoracocharax-stella-k007","title":"Spotfin hatchetfish (Thoracocharax stellatus) — 3-4cm","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSpecies Overview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eSpotfin hatchetfish\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eThoracocharax stellatus\u003c\/em\u003e) is sleek, surface-dwelling South American shoaling fish with striking silver coloration and a distinctive dark spot on the fin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're an experienced aquarist or just starting your fishkeeping journey, the Spotfin hatchetfish offers a rewarding addition to a well-maintained community aquarium. Available for sale in the UK through Tropical Fish Co, this species combines ease of care with genuine character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"info-box\" style=\"background:#f0f7ff;border-left:4px solid #1976D2;padding:15px;margin:20px 0\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquarist Insight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shoaling behaviour is a vital survival strategy in the wild, helping small fish avoid predation and locate food more efficiently.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAppearance and Colouration\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spotfin hatchetfish typically reaches an adult size of around 7 cm, making it well-suited to medium-sized community aquariums. The species displays subtle but attractive natural colouration, which becomes more vibrant when maintained in optimal conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSexual dimorphism may be subtle in this species, though mature females are often slightly fuller-bodied when in breeding condition. Best colours are achieved through a varied diet, stable water chemistry, and the security of a proper shoal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNative Environment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, Thoracocharax stellatus is found in Tropical and subtropical South America, including the Amazon, Orinoco, Paraguay, and Tocantins-Araguaia basins. These fish typically inhabit slow-moving tributaries, forest streams, and floodplain pools where water is soft, warm, and often stained with tannins from decaying organic matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe natural environment of the Spotfin hatchetfish features dense aquatic vegetation, submerged roots, and leaf litter, creating a complex habitat with dappled light and plenty of hiding spaces. Replicating these conditions in the home aquarium helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTank Setup Guidelines\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA minimum aquarium volume of 100 litres is recommended for a small group of Spotfin hatchetfish. Provide a well-planted layout with open swimming areas, subdued lighting, and a dark substrate to help the fish feel secure and display their best colours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInclude plenty of live plants (such as Java Fern, Anubias, or Amazon Sword), driftwood, and smooth rocks to create a naturalistic environment. Efficient filtration is essential, but avoid strong currents; gentle water movement mimics the calm waters these fish prefer in the wild.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA secure aquarium lid is important, as many small characins are capable jumpers when startled. Regular partial water changes and stable conditions are key to long-term health and vitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWater Parameters and Quality\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spotfin hatchetfish thrives in water temperatures between 24-28C, with a pH range of 5.5-7.0. Soft to moderately soft water is preferred, and the addition of natural tannins (via catappa leaves or driftwood) can help replicate wild conditions and support overall health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain excellent water quality through regular testing and partial water changes (20-30% weekly is a good guideline). Ammonia and nitrite should always be zero, and nitrate levels kept low through diligent aquarium maintenance and efficient biological filtration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid sudden fluctuations in temperature or chemistry, as stability is more important than hitting exact parameter targets. Acclimatise new fish slowly using the drip method to minimise stress and reduce the risk of shock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"tip-box\" style=\"background:#fff9e6;border-left:4px solid #FFC107;padding:15px;margin:20px 0\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePro Tip:\u003c\/strong\u003e Always acclimatise new Spotfin hatchetfish slowly using the drip method to avoid temperature and chemistry shock.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNutritional Needs and Feeding Schedule\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs an insectivore, the Spotfin hatchetfish requires a varied and balanced diet to maintain vibrant colours and robust health. Offer small floating foods such as quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen or live insect foods, and other tiny surface-dwelling prey. A varied diet with frequent small feedings is ideal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed small portions two to three times daily, offering only what can be consumed within a few minutes to prevent water quality degradation. A varied diet not only enhances colour and condition but also supports the immune system and encourages natural foraging behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHigh-quality commercial foods formulated for small tropical fish provide a solid foundation, but regular supplementation with live or frozen foods will bring out the best in this species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBehaviour and Social Structure\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spotfin hatchetfish is a peaceful species that does best when kept in a group of six or more individuals. Shoaling behaviour is natural and essential for their confidence; solitary specimens or those kept in insufficient numbers may become timid, stressed, or occasionally nippy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese fish are active swimmers that occupy the mid to upper levels of the aquarium, where they forage, explore, and interact with their shoal-mates. Their natural behaviour is most evident in a well-planted tank with gentle lighting and calm water flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eObserving a healthy shoal of Spotfin hatchetfish is a genuine pleasure, as they move together in fluid formations and respond to environmental cues with natural grace.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCompatible Tank Mates\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spotfin hatchetfish is an excellent choice for a peaceful community aquarium. Suitable tank mates include small peaceful midwater fish, small peaceful bottom-dwellers, dwarf corydoras, and other similarly sized, non-aggressive species that share comparable water parameter requirements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid housing with large or boisterous fish, fin-nippers, aggressive cichlids, or any fish large or aggressive enough to intimidate or prey upon this species. Peaceful invertebrates such as small shrimp and snails can also coexist safely, though very small shrimp fry may occasionally be eaten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways research the specific needs and temperament of any prospective tank mates before introduction, and ensure the aquarium is large enough to accommodate all inhabitants comfortably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpawning Behaviour and Fry Care\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreeding the Spotfin hatchetfish in the home aquarium is possible but may require specific conditions and careful preparation. Breeding is uncommon in home aquaria and requires excellent water quality, a mature planted tank, and likely soft, acidic water with abundant floating cover. Eggs are scattered near the surface; fry...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops will encourage spawning. Condition prospective parents with high-quality live and frozen foods to bring them into peak breeding condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFry are tiny and require very small live foods such as infusoria or commercial liquid fry food initially, graduating to freshly hatched brine shrimp as they grow. Patience, attention to water quality, and careful feeding are essential for success.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eQuality Guarantee and Expert Support\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we specialise in supplying healthy, responsibly sourced Spotfin hatchetfish and a wide range of other freshwater tropical fish for sale in the UK. Every fish is carefully selected, quarantined, and conditioned before dispatch to ensure you receive livestock in peak condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur expert team is on hand to provide tailored advice on aquarium setup, water chemistry, diet, and compatibility, whether you're establishing your first aquarium or expanding an existing collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer reliable UK-wide delivery, excellent customer service, and a commitment to quality that has made us a trusted name among hobbyists across the country. When you buy from Tropical Fish Co, you're investing in livestock backed by genuine expertise and care.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57427526680911,"sku":"K007","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/spotfin-hatchetfish-thoracocharax-stellatus-3-4cm-hero-driftwood-k007.webp?v=1776551434","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/freshwater-fish-for-sale-uk-spotfin-hatchetfish-thoracocharax-stella-k007","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}