Malayan Halfbeak

COMMON NAMES: Malayan Halfbeak is a unique species of fish which belongs to halfbeak family (Hemiramphidae). Its life span is of three years. Malayan Halfbeaks are sexually dimorphic. In terms of growth in size, females are the winners. It is easy to be frightened and this timid fish is a good choice to be kept in an aquarium by the hobbyists. Following account tells more about Malayan Halfbeak.

Habitat

It inhabits shallow regions of brackish and freshwater rivers in rainforests in coastal areas of South East Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Borneo, Singapore, Sumatra and Indonesia.

Water preferences

Not too critical but one teaspoonful of salt per gallon (4.5 liters) is preferred. Temperature range preferred is 20-30 degree C (68-86 degree F) and even slightly higher.

Diet

They savor eating live foods like mosquito larvae, insects, worms, flakes, small crustaceans etc. They are surface-feeders.

Breeding

It is not an easy species to breed. When birth is imminent, the embryos' eyes can be seen through the wall of the female's abdomen. Cannibalism of fry may be reduced by isolating a pregnant female in a shallow, densely planted tank. If the breeding temperature is allowed to drop below around 28 degree C (82 degree F), deformed fry may result.

Description

Malayan Halfbeak is a fascinating fish. If algae growth is not on the clear glass then use opaque glass to calm its nervousness. Male Dermogeny pusillus are very aggressive towards one another and often engage in wrestling matches by locking their jaws and twisting hence the common name of this species is Wrestling Halfbeak.

Physical Characteristics

Body of Malayan Halfbeak is elongated and lateral compression it has is moderate. On the body dorsal fin is set far back, close to caudal fin. Its lower jaw is long and immovable. A red and green line extends across it. The upper jaw is shorter and can be moved up and down. There is variation in color which depends on the place where the specimen is found. Upper body parts are usually silvery-green to silvery-brown. Silver to yellow color is seen on its belly. For maximum part, its fins are transparent, though dorsal and anal fins are red at the base. Iris is of bright green color.

Tank Set Up

A tank that measures 28 inches or 71 cms and has the capacity to hold 20 gallons or 76 liters of water is considered to be sufficient. Floating plants should form a cover over the tank. It provides protection to fry and act as hiding places for the adults. As Malayan Halfbeak is an excellent jumper, thus a tight fitting cover is required for its tank. It is nervous by nature thus, growth of algae will soothe and comfort it. Slight current should be created by the filter and a huge area for swimming should be left open. Big and shallow tanks which have ample surface area are preferred by halfbeaks.

Social Behavior

Malayan Halfbeak makes a good community fish. It can be combined with species that can bear the addition of salt to the aquarium water. It is wise to keep it in a ratio of 2-3 females to one male. They are docile fish in the beginning but when they accustom themselves to the surroundings, they become lively. Companions mostly recommended to be kept with Malayan Halfbeak are Poecilia sp. (Mollies and Guppies), Celebes Rainbowfish and Xiphophorus sp. (Platies and Swordtails).

Unfavorable water conditions make this fish sensitive. Partial water changes are required by it on regular basis. Its diet necessarily asks for live food. As mentioned above, Malayan Halfbeak gets frightened easily, thus it swims recklessly around the tank and can injure itself and may sometimes die. Overall, it is a nice and peaceful fish which will make your aquarium livelier than ever.