Newbie's hatchetfish worries

[Eli]

Hi everyone

I really want some hatchetfish in my 120 litre tank, but something just crossed my mind and having never kept them before (or known anyone keep them) so I thought maybe there was someone here who might know.

Well... I understand that hatchetfish can jump out of the water as a defence mechanism so a well fitting lid is recommended. Anyone know how this affects a water change? I've just got a vision of all my fish jumping away to freedom the first time I go anywhere near them!

 

[Scottyhorse]

I think during a water change they would swim down lower to get away from you.

 

[Eli]

But don't they usually get out of the way of danger by jumping?

 

[Rivercats]

Hatchetfish jump when they get startled. One way to help this is to give them an area in the tank with some floating plants like water sprite. It helps them to feel more secure and less prone to jump. And remember move slowly when working in the tank, once they get accustomed to your working in the tank they should be fine. Just remember moving slow is the trick with them.