Wrestling halfbeak (Dermogenys pusilla)

Scientific name: Dermogenys pusilla Kuhl & van Hasselt, 1823

The Wrestling halfbeak (Dermogenys pusilla) is a freshwater fish of the family Hemiramphidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 24–28°C (75–82°F). Native range: Asia, Thailand to Indonesia. Also includes India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.

Wrestling halfbeak care at a glance

Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

Biology

Found in rivers, rivulets, canals, drains, ponds and lakes. Rarely found in the sea. Inhabits medium to large rivers, flooded fields and mainly stagnant waters including sluggish flowing canals of the lower Mekong. Most common in areas with floating plants or rooted aquatics that reach the surface. Larvae and early juveniles are sometimes found in the upper reaches of mangroves during the wet season. A live-bearer species. Feed on worms, crustaceans and insects. Rarely taken in commercial catches, although it may be found in subsistence catches. Not seen in markets.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Dermogenys pusilla
Family: Hemiramphidae (Halfbeaks)
Order: Beloniformes (Needle fishes)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 7.0
Environment: Marine; freshwater; brackish;; pH range: 7.0 - 8.0; dH range: 9 - 19 pelagic-neritic
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: Asia: Thailand to Indonesia. Also includes India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.
Conservation status (IUCN): Not Evaluated
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: minor commercial; aquarium: commercial
Resilience: High, minimum population doubling time less than 15 months (Preliminary K or Fecundity.)