25 Silver Hatchetfish Tank Mates

Choosing the right tank mates for your Silver Hatchetfish involves considering compatibility, size, and temperament. Look for peaceful fish that prefer the same water conditions as Hatchetfish. Remember, a harmonious tank creates a healthy environment for your aquatic friends.

by Fabian

Updated: September 20, 2023 / 16 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

Bolivian Ram

A splendid addition to your Silver Hatchetfish tank, Bolivian Rams are peaceful species that coexist remarkably well.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 30 gal (113.56 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-85°F (23.88-29.44°C)
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – feed them a balanced diet of flake food along with occasional brine shrimp or bloodworms.
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.62 cm)

Bolivian Rams are renowned for their colorful bodies and fan-like fins. Apart from their beauty, their easy-going personality makes them a favorable companion for your Silver Hatchetfish. Keep track of your tank’s pH level though, as they prefer it slightly acidic, around 6.5 to 7.5.

Corydoras Catfish

For Silver Hatchetfish, the Corydoras Catfish makes an excellent tank mate choice.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Min 20gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, relishes on a variety of diets including pellets, flakes, and live foods
• Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

This adorable, armored, bottom-dwelling fish gets along splendidly with its aquatic counterparts. Its subtle and peaceful temperament, coupled with its undemanding care level, make it a wonderful addition to your hatchetfish community.

The Corydoras Catfish also prefers similar water conditions as the Silver Hatchetfish, making it an even more fitting roommate in your aquarium.

Lemon Tetra

The Lemon Tetra, a vibrant addition to any aquatic community, shines in bright yellow hues variously complemented by iridescent accents.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-82°F (21-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy – The Lemon Tetra is generally peaceful, making integration into a tank community effortless and adding cheer to your display.
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys a balanced diet of flake foods, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (about 4 cm)

They need clean, mildly acidic water, and take on the most brilliant shades when kept in optimal conditions. They are a sprightly and active species that — with good care — can live up to 7 years. They’re a delightful companion for your Silver Hatchetfish.

Otocinclus Catfish

The Otocinclus Catfish is an optimal choice as a tank mate for Silver Hatchetfish.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
• Care Level: Medium
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. The diet mainly consists of algae, but it also enjoys vegetables and high-quality flake food.
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

These tiny, diligent algae-eaters are nonviolent and complement the Silver Hatchetfish, which prefer a quieter environment. However, their care level is medium, so they require an attentive aquarist to ensure they thrive.

Glowlight Tetra

The Glowlight Tetra is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a peaceful, active fish that’s visually captivating. With a shimmering body and distinctive orange-red stripe, these stunning tank occupants add a flash of color to any aquarium.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivores, require a varied diet of flake, live, and frozen foods
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, Glowlight Tetras thrive best in groups of at least five and enjoy densely planted environments. Keep these factors in mind when considering them as potential tank mates for your Silver Hatchetfish.

Molly Fish

The Molly fish is a lively addition to a silver hatchetfish community.

• Compatibility: 4/5. They get along well with hatchetfish due to their peaceful nature.
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters). Mollies appreciate room to roam.
• Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C). Mollies prefer a warmer environment.
• Care Level: Easy. They’re resilient and easy to care for.
• Temperament: Peaceful. Molly fish coexist well with others.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed them a balanced diet of flakes, pellets, and live or frozen food.
• Adult Size: 3-4 inches (7.6-10 cm). They are small yet active swimmers.

Molly fish are tropical, lively, and add a dash of vibrant color to your aquarium.

Ricefish

The humble Ricefish makes for an excellent companion to your Silver Hatchetfish. These peaceful, schooling fish come in a variety of attractive colors. They prefer to stay in the middle layer of the tank, providing plenty of space for the hatchetfish to explore the surface.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 68-77°F (20-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Can be fed high quality flakes, pellets, and live foods like brine shrimp or daphnia.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (4 cm)

Thanks to their relaxed nature and simple care requirements, Ricefish can seamlessly fit into your existing aquarium setup. Their vibrant colors and swift, darting movements will provide a lively backdrop to your hatchetfish’s compelling aerial antics.

Harlequin Rasbora

A standout in any fish tank, the Harlequin Rasbora is known for its vibrant colors and peaceful disposition.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy. Good for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful. Savors the company of its kind.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous feeders. Loves a variety of flakes, live, and frozen foods.
• Adult Size: Can mature up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Silver Hatchetfish and Harlequin Rasbora make a harmonious pair. They relish similar water conditions, and their peaceful temperaments make the integration smooth. However, remember to keep a school of at least 6 Rasboras for them to feel secure and show their best colors.

Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra is a vibrant, dynamic little fish to add to your Silver Hatchetfish tank. They exhibit velvety blue and red hues that give a splash of color to your aquatic point of interest.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 70-81°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, enjoys both flakes, frozen and live meals
• Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Neon Tetras, being schooling fish, thrive better in groups. They would aesthetically appeal when glowing in the dark, making them an absolute treat for your tank. Care should be taken, however, not to pair them with large or aggressive species.

Zebra Danio

The charming Zebra Danio makes an excellent silver hatchetfish tank mate.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Temperature Range: 65-77°F (18-25°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; loves a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods
• Adult Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

Zebra Danios are social and active swimmers, so they’ll add a lively touch to your aquarium. While hatchetfish are surface dwellers, danios cover the middle and lower regions of the tank, providing balanced energy. Their high compatibility score confirms zebra danios won’t engage in nasty contests.

Despite their active nature, they are peaceful and rarely show aggression towards their tankmates. So, you can expect harmonious co-habitation between your silver hatchetfish and these striped dazzlers.

Rosy Tetra

Rosy Tetra, a beautiful freshwater fish, adds vibrance to any tank. Easily adaptable, this species is a promising choice for an aquarium shared with Silver Hatchetfish.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gal (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Flakes, live, or freeze-dried
• Adult Size: 1.5-2 in (3.8-5 cm)

Rosy Tetra, with its distinctive pinkish hue, is a great fit for lively yet peaceful tank communities. Its diet ranges from flakes to live food, making it an undemanding addition to your aquarium. Their compatibility with Silver Hatchetfish, coupled with easy-going nature, ensures a harmonious aquatic environment.

Kuhli Loach

The Kuhli Loach, a nocturnal delight, is apt at making an aquarium home lively and full of activity. With its excellent adaptability and eel-like body, it adds an element of dynamism, swimming in and out of small crevices.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; enthusiastic about sinking pellets, frozen foods, or live worms
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)

Note that, while Kuhli Loaches generally keep to themselves and are docile, their night-owl routines might surprise other fish in the tank. Furthermore, they enjoy burrowing hence a soft substrate is paramount for their well-being. Keep this in mind when pairing them with the Silver Hatchetfish.

Platy Fish

Platy fish are delightful creatures that will make a great tank mate for your Silver Hatchetfish. They come in a variety of colors, adding vibrancy and interest to your aquarium.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – feed them a mix of plant-based foods and protein-rich foods.
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)

Platy Fish are very adaptable, tolerant of a range of conditions, and importantly, peaceful, so they’re an ideal choice for a community tank. They’re excellent for even the inexperienced aquarium enthusiast, needing minimal care but offering maximum enjoyment.

Ember Tetra

The Ember Tetra is an endearing, lively little fish that brings magnificence to your silver hatchetfish tank.

• Compatibility: 4/5. Embers are community-friendly and go about their day swimming calmly, not bothering others.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (37.85 liters) for a small group of embers. They’re small but appreciate open swimming space.
• Temperature Range: 73-84°F (23-29°C). Warm water suits them best, resembling their natural riverine habitats.
• Care Level: Easy. These are hardy creatures, so beginners rejoice.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They seldom initiate conflicts, making them perfect tank mates.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Prefers a mix of frozen or live foods and high-quality flake foods.
• Adult Size: 1 inch (2.54cm). Though small in size, their vivid color more than compensates.

Remember, even with high compatibility, always observe and manage their integration proactively.

Dwarf Gourami

Dwarf Gourami is a vibrant species boasting of varied shades of blue and red. An excellent choice for a peaceful community tank, it’s known for its timid nature and docile temperament.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 10 gal (38 ltr)
• Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; accepts flake food, vegetables, live or frozen foods
• Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)

This fish adjusts well with Silver Hatchetfish but needs hiding spots like plants and caves to relax. Also, remember, Dwarf Gouramis prefer a calm water flow reflecting their natural habitat, and undue chaos might stress them out. They’re perfect if you’re seeking color, tranquility, and easy maintenance, all in one.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

This visually striking fish is an excellent choice for a Silver Hatchetfish tank. It’s peaceful, easy to care for, and tolerant of cooler temperatures.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters) ideally.
• Temperature Range: 64 to 72°F (18 to 22°C).
• Care Level: Easy. They are hardy and adaptable.
• Temperament: Peaceful and social. Prefers to be in schools of six or more.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoys a mix of prepared flakes, frozen, and live foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).

Just remember, a well-planted tank decorated with driftwood would be appreciated by your White Cloud Mountain Minnows. And of course, always monitor your tank’s conditions regularly for optimal fish health.

Cherry Barb

Cherry Barbs are known for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, making them excellent additions to a Silver Hatchetfish tank. They mingle well due to similar temperaments and size.

• Compatibility: 5/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Feed flakes, pellets, and live foods
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

These are moderately easy to care for, commence well with Silver Hatchetfish and do not outgrow them. Their diet is also similar to the hatchetfish’s and they both thrive in comparable temperature ranges. Overall, Cherry Barbs can be great additions to your Silver Hatchetfish aquarium.

Rummy-Nose Tetra

Rummy-Nose Tetra is a stunning addition to your aquarium. This species has a distinct red head and zebra-patterned tail fin, garnering attention in any tank setup. It matches well with Silver Hatchetfish.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) minimum
• Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Moderate. Correct water conditions are necessary.
• Temperament: Peaceful. A schooling fish, gets along nicely with others.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Enjoys flakes, live foods or pelleted diet.
• Adult Size: Around 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)

Just remember, keeping them with similar temperate and peaceful fish can help create harmony in your aquarium, and of course, keep your Rummy-Nose Tetra happy and healthy.

Endler’s Livebearer

Endler’s Livebearer is an ideal mate for your Silver Hatchetfish. They’re small, peaceful, and easy to care for, making them perfect for cohabitation. Endler’s Livebearer is known for its vibrantly colored body and playful behavior which make the aquarium environs lively. They’re omnivores, so a balanced diet of plant-based and protein-rich food is recommended.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, varied diet of plant-based and protein-rich foods
• Adult Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)

Endler’s Livebearer may just be the cheery addition your Silver Hatchetfish tank needs. They’re sociable, easy to maintain, and a delightful sight to behold.

Glass Catfish

The Glass Catfish, also known as the Ghost Catfish, is a stunning, translucent fish that adds a unique aesthetic appeal to your tank.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5 – Peaceful by nature, they coalesce well with similarly non-aggressive species.
• Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) – Space helps these active swimmers to stay healthy.
• Temperature Range: 72°F – 80°F (22°C – 27°C) – They prefer a slightly warmer environment.
• Care Level: Moderate – Familiarizing yourself with their specific needs is key.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They’re shy and don’t thrive in a loud environment.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – They prefer live and frozen foods but can adapt to flakes or pellets.
• Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm) – They’re sleek swimmers that don’t require a large tank.

Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetras are among the most popular tank mates for Silver Hatchetfish mainly due to their non-aggressive nature and vibrant colors. They are easy to care for and adapt easily to new tank environments.

• Compatibility: 4/5
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (with a preference for plant matter)
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, the striking blue and red coloring of the Cardinal Tetra will beautifully complement the metallic sheen of your Silver Hatchetfish creating a visually stunning aquarium environment. Keep in mind these vibrant swimmers are at their best in schools of six or more. Ensure your tank is accommodating enough for the group. They’ll return the favor with a beautiful, serene presence.

Bristlenose Pleco

Bristlenose Plecos are striking and practical aquarium additions. They’re known for their algae-eating habits, helping to keep tanks clean.

• Compatibility: 4/5 – They are peaceful and won’t bother your Hatchetfish.
• Tank Size: 30gal (113 liter) – They need sufficient space to thrive.
• Temperature Range: 60-80°F (15-27°C) – They can tolerate a wide comfy range.
• Care Level: Easy – Perfect for beginner aquarists.
• Temperament: Peaceful – They keep to themselves, mostly.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – Feed them a varied diet, including algae.
• Adult Size: Up to 5in (13cm) – They’re quite a sight, especially with their unique whisker-like appendages.

When it comes to Silver Hatchetfish tank mates, the Bristlenose Pleco makes a compelling case, blending practicality with an alluring aesthetic.

Swordtail

One of the popular tank mates for a Silver Hatchetfish is the vibrant Swordtail. It’s an adaptable tropical freshwater fish known for the elongated lower lobe of their tail, which resembles a sword. In the right aquarium setting, they coexist beautifully.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5
• Tank Size: Minimum 29 gal (110 liter)
• Temperature Range: 64 to 82°F (18 to 28°C)
• Care Level: Moderate. Maintain clean water and a balanced diet.
• Temperament: Mostly peaceful. Males can be aggressive towards each other.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. Feed with a balanced mix of dry and live food.
• Adult Size: 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm)

Black Neon Tetra

The Black Neon Tetra, unlike its cousin, the Neon Tetra, displays soft hues of black and white and fits in perfectly in a Silver Hatchetfish tank environment.

• Compatibility: 4 out of 5. They are peaceful tank mates and adapt well with similar sized and temperament species.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (38 liters). Black Neon Tetras enjoy plenty of room to swim alongside their Silver Hatchetfish buddies.
• Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C). They prefer slightly warm water conditions.
• Care Level: Easy. Making it an excellent choice for beginners.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They’re known for their gentle nature.
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore. Provide a balanced diet of flake and live foods.
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). They maintain a compact size throughout their lifespan.

Threadfin Rainbowfish

The Threadfin Rainbowfish, with its ethereal fins and shimmering colors, is a vision to behold.

• Compatibility: 3/5
• Tank Size: 20 Gallons (75 liters)
• Temperature Range: 75-80 degrees F (24-27 degrees C)
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet & Feeding: Omnivore
• Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)

Remember, though they’re mostly peaceful, they occasionally bully smaller fish, hence the 3 out of 5 compatibility score. In terms of tank size, these fish thrive in a 20-gallon (75-liter) tank. The perfect water temperature for them ranges between 75-80 degrees F (24-27 degrees C).

They’re not very challenging to keep alive as their care level is ‘Intermediate’. Their fascination for both plant-based and meat-based food makes them omnivores. Full-grown Threadfin Rainbowfish can up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

Conclusion

Having shared key insights on 25 ideal tank mates for your Silver Hatchetfish, it’s clear that there are numerous options for creating a harmonious aquatic environment. These dynamic community-focused fishes demonstrate that pet fish diversity can be embraced in a balanced way.

What is your takeaway from the wide range of tank mates discussed, or, which one is your favorite? Please, feel free to leave a comment below.