A fascinating surface-dwelling livebearer native to the fast-flowing freshwater streams of Sulawesi (Celebes), Indonesia. They possess an elongated lower jaw and are strict top-dwellers. Unlike many other halfbeak species in the trade, they are strictly freshwater and do not require salt. As predatory insectivores, they are known to eat fry. A tight-fitting lid is mandatory as they are exceptional jumpers.
Celebes Halfbeak At a Glance
Celebes Halfbeak Tank Requirements
Will Celebes Halfbeak fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Celebes Halfbeak needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Celebes Halfbeak against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Celebes Halfbeak Water Parameters
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Celebes Halfbeak Temperament & Compatibility
Celebes Halfbeak Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Female
Females are significantly larger and bulkier than males. They lack the pronounced, colorful fleshy 'hook' on the lower jaw. They are generally peaceful but will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Standard, Wild Type
Male
Males are smaller but feature striking red, black, and white markings on their fins, along with a distinct, fleshy curved hook on the lower jaw. Males are highly territorial toward one another and will 'wrestle' by locking jaws. Best kept with a harem of females (1 male per 2-3 females).
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Male Halfbeak
Celebes Halfbeak Care Guide Summary
The Celebes Halfbeak, scientifically known as Nomorhamphus liemi, belongs to the Livebearers family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 10 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Celebes Halfbeak requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 5–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Celebes Halfbeak is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Female and Male. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Celebes Halfbeak Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Celebes Halfbeak, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the surface zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels and floating plants to diffuse overhead light and create shaded areas. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Celebes Halfbeak Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Celebes Halfbeak is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the surface zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Celebes Halfbeak Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Celebes Halfbeak.
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
Show 17 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Celebes Halfbeak
How big does Celebes Halfbeak get?
Celebes Halfbeak (Nomorhamphus liemi) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 10 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Celebes Halfbeak need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 75 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm are recommended for Celebes Halfbeak. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Celebes Halfbeak need?
Celebes Halfbeak thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a general hardness of 5–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Celebes Halfbeak peaceful or aggressive?
Celebes Halfbeak is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 4 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Celebes Halfbeak live alone?
Yes, Celebes Halfbeak can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Celebes Halfbeak have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Celebes Halfbeak benefits from plants - floating and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Celebes Halfbeak need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Celebes Halfbeak is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Top Tank Mates for Celebes Halfbeak
These fish are strong compatibility matches for Celebes Halfbeak based on water preferences, temperament, adult size, and tank behavior.
Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish)
Brachyplatystoma tigrinum
Ideal Tank MatesDwarf Petricola
Synodontis lucipinnis
Ideal Tank MatesColombian Tetra
Hyphessobrycon columbianus
Ideal Tank MatesChinese Barb (Green Barb)
Puntius semifasciolatus
Ideal Tank MatesChecker Barb
Oliotius oligolepis
Ideal Tank MatesChannel Catfish
Ictalurus punctatus
Ideal Tank MatesPlants That Suit Celebes Halfbeak
These plants pair well with Celebes Halfbeak based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
African Onion Plant
Crinum calamistratum
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Amazon Sword
Echinodorus amazonicus
Anacharis
Egeria densa
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Ashy Pipewort
Eriocaulon cinereum
Fish Similar to Celebes Halfbeak
Wrestling Halfbeak
Dermogenys pusilla
A unique, surface-dwelling livebearer known for its elongated, pike-like lower jaw. Males are famous for 'wrestling' by locking jaws to establish dominance. They are strictly top-dwellers and excellent jumpers, requiring a tight-fitting lid to prevent escapes and snout injuries. They prefer hard, alkaline water and thrive in both freshwater and slightly brackish conditions.
Celebes Rainbowfish
Marosatherina ladigesi
An active, schooling fish native to the karst (limestone) streams of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Known for their striking neon blue lateral stripes and yellowish fins. They strictly require hard, alkaline water to thrive and are highly sensitive to soft, acidic conditions. A peaceful species that requires plenty of open swimming space.
Dusky Millions Fish
Phalloceros caudimaculatus
A highly adaptable, sub-tropical livebearer native to South America. Known for its hardiness, it thrives in unheated aquariums and can tolerate mildly brackish water. Unlike many common livebearers, they are voracious algae grazers and may damage soft-leaved plants. Males relentlessly pursue females to mate, so keeping a ratio of at least 2-3 females per male is strongly advised.
African Butterfly Fish
Pantodon buchholzi
A fascinating, prehistoric-looking surface dweller native to the slow-moving waters of West Africa. They are strictly top-dwelling ambush predators with a completely flat back and upturned mouth designed to hunt insects and small fish. A tight-fitting lid is absolutely mandatory as they are exceptional jumpers capable of gliding above the water.
Dwarf Molly
Poecilia chica
The Dwarf Molly is a rare and peaceful livebearer native to Mexico. It is the smallest member of the True Mollies. They thrive in strictly freshwater environments without the need for added salt, provided the water is hard and alkaline. They are active, constantly grazing on algae, and should be kept in groups with a higher ratio of females to males to reduce reproductive harassment.
Least Killifish (Heterandria)
Heterandria formosa
Despite its common name, the Least Killifish is actually one of the smallest livebearing fish in the world, belonging to the Poeciliidae family, not the killifish family. Native to the southeastern United States, they are incredibly peaceful and perfect for nano tanks. Unlike most livebearers, they exhibit 'superfoetation', meaning females drop 1-2 fry every few days rather than a large single brood.