Celebes Halfbeak - Nomorhamphus liemi Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
Celebes Halfbeaks (Nomorhamphus liemi) are highly coveted within the aquarium trade and represent a valuable addition to any community aquarium. These intriguing and distinctive livebearers are particularly well-suited for planted tanks. Upon initial introduction to the aquarium environment, Dwarf Halfbeaks commonly exhibit nervous and timid behaviour, often displaying erratic swimming patterns when startled and occasionally colliding with the tank walls. However, with sufficient acclimation to their surroundings, they become vibrant and relatively low-maintenance organisms.
To ensure optimal well-being, Celebes Halfbeaks thrive when kept in groups. These groups can consist of a single male accompanied by several females or, in more spacious setups with ample visual barriers, larger mixed groups comprising at least six males. The latter arrangement helps distribute territorial aggression among the male population.
Celebes Halfbeaks display a peaceful disposition towards other species, making selecting tankmates of comparable size and temperament crucial. Suitable companions may include other Livebearers, Corydoras Catfish, serene Barbs, Kribensis Cichlids, Rainbowfish, and Plecos. It is advisable to avoid housing them with small fish or fry, as they may be preyed upon. Similarly, boisterous species that could intimidate the halfbeaks should be kept separate.
The aquarium housing Celebes Halfbeaks should ideally be situated in a serene area and possess a large surface area. This accommodation choice takes into account the species' skittish nature. It is essential to provide ample space to prevent the fish from inadvertently damaging their delicate mouth parts on the aquarium glass when swimming at high speeds. Additionally, ensuring the aquarium has a secure lid is crucial, as these fish possess exceptional jumping abilities.
Incorporating tall clusters of driftwood and dense vegetation, including floating species that offer surface cover, contributes to creating a sense of security for the fish. Effective filtration with moderate water movement and designated resting areas that offer respite from strong currents are also important considerations. Regular partial water changes assist in maintaining low nitrate levels.
Celebes Halfbeaks exhibit an elongated body shape with moderate lateral compression. The dorsal fin is positioned towards the rear of the body, near the caudal fin. Typically, the body displays a silvery-green to silvery-brown hue, while the fins exhibit a red colouration with a black fringe. The iris may exhibit a vibrant green shade. Notably, there are two geographical colour variants of Celebes Halfbeaks: Nomorhamus liemi liemi, featuring black fins, and Nomorhamus liemi snijdersi, characterized by red fins.
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Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Celebes Halfbeaks is a straightforward task. The male individuals exhibit a slimmer and smaller physique compared to their female counterparts. Furthermore, the males showcase vibrant colours and possess an andropodium, which serves as a distinguishing feature.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Nomorhamphus liemi |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1977 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Beloniformes |
| Family | Zenarchopteridae |
| Genus | Nomorhamphus |
| Origins | |
| Approx Max Size | 10 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle - Top |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 3 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Livebearer |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 12 |
| ℉ | 68 - 75 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 24 |
Natural Habitat
The Celebes Halfbeak species is indigenous to the swiftly flowing freshwater environments found in the southern region of Sulawesi, an island located in Indonesia, Asia. Within this habitat, these fish primarily occupy shallow waters and exhibit a feeding behaviour that involves capturing insects from the water's surface.
Breeding
The breeding of Celebes Halfbeaks within a home aquarium environment has been successfully accomplished, albeit it is acknowledged as a moderately challenging undertaking. It is important to recognize that subsequent pairings after a female has produced one or two broods may not consistently yield viable offspring. This issue is thought to be associated with a deficiency in specific vitamins, particularly vitamins A and D. To mitigate this potential challenge; it is advisable to provide these fish with a high-quality and varied diet.
Following fertilization, the female undergoes a gestation period lasting between 3 to 6 weeks, with the duration influenced by temperature conditions. The typical brood size ranges from 10 to 15 fry. In order to enhance the survival rate of the fry and minimize the risk of predation, it is recommended to separate them from the adult population. Additionally, providing suitable nourishment, such as baby brine shrimp and powdered first foods, will facilitate their optimal growth and development.
Diet & Feeding
Within their native habitat, Celebes Halfbeaks primarily depend on Drosophila fruit flies found on the water's surface for sustenance. In a controlled environment, it is advisable to offer these fish a diverse diet encompassing daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Initially, these Halfbeaks may display hesitancy in accepting dry food options. Nevertheless, through patient and consistent efforts, they can gradually adapt to incorporating dried food into their dietary intake.
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Published: 27 Jun 2023
Last Updated: 20 May 2024