Wrestling Halfbeak

Dermogenys pusilla

Also known as: Malayan Halfbeak, Halfbeak

A surface-dwelling livebearer with a long lower jaw; males lock jaws in harmless wrestling matches.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–82°F

pH

6.5–8

Hardness

5–20 dGH

Max size

2.4 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Groups (4+)

Swim level

Top

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

2-4 years

Breeding

Livebearer

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Southeast Asia: Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia

Stays at the surface and needs a tight lid and floating plants. Keep one male with several females, as males spar. Prefers live or frozen foods that float. Tolerates a little salt. Startles easily and can injure its beak on glass.