[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Livebeavers – Celebes Halfbeak (Nomorhamphus liemi)

Of the eight or so species in this genus, Celebes Halfbeak is the most frequently available. Its common name, while being appropriate in that the species is found in Sulawesi (Celebes), would seem better suited to N. celebensis—also from Sulawesi—which is normally referred to as Northern Harlequin Halfbeak. Two subspecies of N. liemi are recognized: N. l. liemi (known as both Celebes Halfbeak and Southern Harlequin Halfbeak) and N. l. snijdersi (Snijder’s Halfbeak).

Family

• Hemirhamphidae

Subfamily

• Hemirhamphinae

Distribution

• Areas around Maros in southern Sulawesi.

Size

• Males around 6cm (2 1/2in); females reported up to 4in (10cm).

Behavior

• Surface swimmer; considerably more peaceful than Dermogenys pusillus (Wrestling Halfbeak).

Diet

• Livefoods; floating freeze-dried, deep-frozen, and other diets.

Aquarium

• Well covered, with plenty of open surface space (i.e. free of vegetation), subdued lighting, and submerged vegetation planted in clumps along sides and back of aquarium. Neutral to alkaline medium-hard water. No salt required. Temperature range: 72-79°F (22-26°C).

Breeding

• 10-15 very large fry are produced every 4-8 weeks.