Nomorhamphus liemi
Celebes Halfbeak, Black-spotted Halfbeak
Nomorhamphus liemi, commonly known as the Celebes Halfbeak, is a unique, surface-dwelling fish found primarily in streams and rivers in Sulawesi. Known for their elongated snout and vibrant, often black-spotted body, they are a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. Adult males tend to be notably smaller than females and display brighter colors.
They are livebearers, meaning the females give birth to free-swimming young. They are generally peaceful but may become territorial during breeding season. It’s vital to offer them a mixture of floating plants and open swimming areas. Provide a varied diet, including live and frozen foods, to maintain health and color.
Tank mates should be carefully selected as they can become stressed by aggressive or overly frenetic companions. Regular water changes are crucial to prevent nitrate buildup and disease.