Pacific Hatchetfish
NamePacific Hatchetfish
Scientific NameArgyropelecus affinis
Common NamesPacific Hatchetfish, Slender Hatchetfish, Pacific Silver Hatchetfish
FamilySternoptychidae
OriginPacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Max Size (Inches)3.5
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)34-39
pH Range7.8-8.1
Description
The Pacific Hatchetfish is a deep-sea marine fish characterized by its compressed, hatchet-shaped body and large, upward-pointing tubular eyes. It utilizes bioluminescent photophores on its ventral side for counter-illumination, aiding in camouflage in the mesopelagic zone. This species is a predatory fish, feeding primarily on zooplankton and small crustaceans in its deep-ocean habitat.
