Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Celebes Halfbeak, also known as the Black Chin Celebes Halfbeak, are endemic to shallow freshwater streams and creeks on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia — formerly known as ‘Celebes’. A unique fish, ane one that is a livebearer, Celebes halfbeak are generally peaceful fish with clear sexual dimorphism between males and females. Males tend to be more colorful and exhibit a clear andropodium, or modified point, behind their anal fin that aids in reproduction. Found in small aggregations in the wild, it is best to keep multiple females per a single male. Unlike many other prolific livebearers (eg. guppies, mollies), Celebes halfbeak are considered challenging to breed in the home aquarium. As Celebes halfbeaks mature, they can develop a “fleshy” black decurved lobe off of their lower jaw; the function, if any, of this is unknown. Celebes halfbeak can reach an adult size of approximately 3-1/2″.

Diet Requirements: Celebes halfbeaks are carnivorous and feed at the surface. A diet made up of various high quality frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia are ideal. They may accept dried foods. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 20 gallon aquarium with a tight fitting lid is ideal for a small group of Celebes halfbeaks. Size up accordingly to accomodate a larger group, especially if multiple males are being kept together. This species should not be kept in too small of an aquarium given their somewhat skittish nature, as this increases the chances of them swimming into glass and damaging their delicate “beak.” Introduce Celebes halfbeak into a biologically mature aquarium, as they can be sensitive to certain water parameters. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters favorable (Nitrates < 20 ppm). Filtration should be generous, and the aquarium needs to be aquascaped with some taller pieces of wood and rooted or floating live plants that can create visual barriers and refuge spots near the surface where this species spends most of its time. Celebes halfbeaks can be mixed with docile, typical community fish such as other livebearers, tetra, rasbora, and various bottom dwellers. Avoid boisterous tank mates that will intimidate Celebes halfbeaks. Recommended water conditions, 76-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 6.0-7.5.

Purchase Size: Medium: 2″ to 2-1/2″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.