Originating in South America in the Peruvian and middle Amazon, the Guianas and Venezuela, it grows to about 2.5 inches (6.4 cm).

Hatchetfish will often jump out of the water when alarmed, propelled by their large, winglike pectoral fins.

The river hatchetfish is a schooling species best kept in groups of five or more that spends most of its time in the top-level of the water where it searches for food.

To prevent this, the top must either be completely sealed, or the water level lowered so the edges of the tank extend further upwards than the fish are capable of jumping.

This is also less common with the addition of floating plants, to provide cover.