This beautifully colored halfbeak comes from the island of Sulawesi (= Celebes), where it is found in the south of the island, in the highlands of Maros. In contrast to the closely related genus Dermogenys, the upper and lower jaws are approximately the same length, hence the genus name. For some species, however, it is still disputed whether they belong to Dermogenys or Nomorhamphus.
Two subspecies of Nomorhamphus liemi have been described, N. liemi liemi with black fins and N. liemi snijdersi with black and red fins. As wild-caught specimens all show transitions in fin colors, no subspecies are currently scientifically recognized. Imports such as the present one, in which the fish have a high proportion of red, are nevertheless referred to as N. liemi snijdersi in the hobby.
It is interesting to note that Nomorhamphus males can have a fleshy lower jaw hook. The purpose of this is unknown. However, it is noticeable that the hook is developed to different degrees in males of the same size. This suggests that the mandibular hook has something to do with the social position of the respective animal, i.e. males with a high social rank have a strongly developed hook. Males with a low social rank have a weakly developed hook, which is reminiscent of the conditions in females. Such characteristics make it easier for females to select the strongest male for mating.
In the wild, Nomorhamphus are mainly found in streams, they also appreciate strong currents in the aquarium. The viviparous fish give birth to young every 4-6 weeks, which can already be up to 2.5 cm long. The mother fish are extremely prey to the young. Good breeding success can only be achieved if the fish are fed a very varied diet, including small insects (crickets, Drosophila, Buffalo worms). The water temperature should be rather low (20-24°C), the pH value above 7. The males are quite incompatible with each other. However, Nomorhamphus are peaceful towards other fish species, but their ability to swallow should not be underestimated. Small fish are eaten!
For our customers: the animals have code 438844 on our stocklist. Please note that we only supply the wholesale trade.
Lexicon: Nomorhamphus: Ancient Greek, meaning “with jaws in accordance with the law”; refers to the upper and lower jaws, which are of approximately equal length in contrast to other half-billed pike. liemi: dedicatory name; snijdersi: dedicatory name.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
