A stockier halfbeak from Sulawesi, olive-bodied with red and black tipped fins and a curved fleshy beak. It prefers cooler water than most tropical fish and gives birth to large, well-developed young.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingAttentive tank care
Sensitive to water quality โ stay on top of testing and maintenance.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment2โ4 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Swim bladder disorder
๐ Care guide
The Celebes Halfbeak (Nomorhamphus liemi) comes from cool upland streams on Sulawesi in Indonesia and reaches about 6 to 9 cm, with females noticeably larger. Unlike the Asian Dermogenys its lower jaw is shorter, thicker and curves downward into a fleshy hook in males. It is a livebearer that produces small numbers of large, fully formed fry rather than many tiny ones. It needs 100 litres or more at 22-26C, which is cooler than a standard tropical tank, in neutral to slightly alkaline water at pH 7.0 to 8.0, with gentle to moderate flow, good oxygen, floating plants and a firmly closed lid. Feed live and frozen foods at the surface: daphnia, mosquito larvae, wingless fruit flies, small bloodworm and a floating pellet if it will take one. Warm, still, low-oxygen water is the most common cause of failure with this species. It is peaceful towards other fish but males spar with each other, so keep one male with several females or provide plenty of surface area and cover.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Celebes Halfbeak?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Celebes Halfbeak need?
Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality โ stay on top of testing and maintenance.
What tank size does a Celebes Halfbeak need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Celebes Halfbeak a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Celebes Halfbeak live?
2โ4 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Celebes Halfbeak?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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