Carnegiella myersi

(Fernandez-Yepez, 1950)

Vernacular names

English : Pygmy hatchetfish
French : Poisson-hachette transparent

Classification

Class : Teleostei
Order : Characiformes
Family : Gasteropelecidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification

Adults can reach 2.2 cm in length. Characteristic hatchetfish body shape with a round and prominent belly and upward turned mouth. Almost transparent fish, silvery grey coloration with black edge on belly, black longitudinal line on flanks and small black spots giving a peppered aspect on belly and lower flanks.

Range and habitat

The species is apparently found in Bolivia and Peru. It occurs around the Amazon river basin. Lives in slow-moving rivers and marshes, always near the surface.

Conservation

IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species seems to be at least locally common within its range. Still captured for international trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation