Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater halfbeak (Dermogenys pusilla) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Zenarchopteridae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The wrestling halfbeak is a small, livebearing halfbeak (Zenarchopteridae) from Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender body with a strongly elongated lower jaw; the upper jaw remains short. The name refers to the males, which can 'wrestle' with their jaws over territory. It lives just below the surface of rivers, canals, ditches, ponds and lakes and rarely enters the sea. It hunts insects fallen on the surface and mosquito larvae, making it useful for mosquito control. It is popular in the aquarium hobby and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater halfbeak?
The Freshwater halfbeak has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Ovoviviparous halfbeak; the males 'wrestle' with their jaws; useful against midge larvae.
Where does the Freshwater halfbeak live?
The Freshwater halfbeak lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around open water. Southeast Asia; rivers, canals, ditches, ponds and lakes.
How big does the Freshwater halfbeak get?
The Freshwater halfbeak grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Freshwater halfbeak dangerous to humans?
No, the Freshwater halfbeak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freshwater halfbeak edible?
The Freshwater halfbeak is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dermogenys
More from the family Zenarchopteridae
Want the complete picture on the Freshwater halfbeak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater halfbeak is one of 12,519 species in the app.