Triporteus dotted

Triportheus dotted, scientific name Triportheus angulatus, belongs to the Characidae family. The English-language trade name sounds more interesting – Twilight Hatchetfish (Dusky Narrow Hatchetfish). It is also known as the freshwater Sardine due to a certain external resemblance to this genus of fish.

Adults reach a length of about 16 cm. The abdomen is keel-shaped, although not as large as that of the classic hatchet fish. The coloration is silvery in the lower part and grayish in the upper part. The body pattern consists of many black specks arranged in horizontal rows. The pectoral fins are oriented in such a way that they resemble miniature wings. Sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed. Males and females are indistinguishable from each other, with the exception of spawning periods.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 150 liters.
• Temperature – 22-30°C
• Value pH — 5.5–7.5
• Water hardness – soft to medium hard (0-18 dH)
• Substrate type – any
• Lighting – subdued or moderate
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement is weak
• The size of the fish is about 16 cm.
• Food – any floating food
• Temperament – peaceful, active
• Keeping in a flock of 6-7 individuals

Habitat

Comes from South America. It is found throughout the vast Amazon basin. Inhabits shallow areas of rivers and streams. Fish gather in large flocks and stay near the surface in search of food.

Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium

Triporteus dotted can live in a wide range of hydrochemical parameters (pH and dGH), which simplifies the process of water treatment. It is important to provide clean water rich in oxygen. Given the need to maintain a high temperature, hotel aeration becomes mandatory.

Aquarium maintenance is standard. The minimum set of procedures consists of a weekly replacement of part of the water with fresh water, cleaning the soil from organic waste (feed residues, excrement) and equipment maintenance (according to manufacturers’ recommendations).

Thus, the content of this type of fish is quite simple, if all conditions are met.

The fish must be in a group. For 5-6 individuals, a tank of 150 liters or more will be required, and its surface area is more important than depth. Triporteus dotted spend most of their time at the surface, which affects the design features. The top layer of water should be left free so as not to interfere with swimming. Tall plants are located on the sides, and floating ones should not completely cover the surface.

They tend to jump out of the water – the aquarium must have a lid.

Food

Omnivorous species. Dry floating food is a good choice for daily feeding. Sinking products will be left without attention.

Behavior and Compatibility

Active moving fish. There are no intraspecific conflicts. It is preferable to purchase in groups of 5 individuals. Compatible with fish of comparable size living in the water column or on the lower tier, for example, small catfish such as Corydoras, geophagus, peaceful South American cichlids and others.