Dermogenys pusillus is an interesting fish found in the fresh and brackish waters of southeast Asia. They are from the family Hemirhamphidae (Half Beaks). Most members of the species have an elongated body and an extended lower jaw.

This fish is a livebearer and the male transfers milt to the female by a modified anal fin called an andropodium.

Maintaining this fish is nonproblematic . They grow to three inches ,(The male being slightly smaller) so the tank size must be appropriate. The tank must also be tightly covered as they are excellent jumpers.

They can tolerate temperatures below 64 degrees F. but are more active in warmer water. The water conditions should be as follows Ph. 7.0 to 7.4 and salt should be added 2-3 teaspoons per 2 gallons of water.

For breeding I used a 25 gallon long tank. The temperature is 78 degrees and I added 1 tablespoon of salt for every 5 gallons of water. The Ph. was 7.2 . I put in a large amount of hornwort to hopefully save some fry as the fish will eat their young. Half beaks are not easy to breed . I have never seen their courtship, but in reading up on them, I found that they have a vigorous courtship and that fertilization takes place when both male and female jump out of water side by side. Gestation lasts 20-60 days and the female gives birth to 10 - 30 fry.

I managed to save 5 fry on my first attempt . The fry are easy to raise on newly hatched brine shrimp. The adults can also be maintained on brine shrimp , but they will accept small flakes and freeze dried tubifex worms.

All in all these are an interesting and challenging fish and I have enjoyed having them.