Forest Halfbeak (Hemirhamphodon pogonognathus) is a fascinating and rarely seen surface-dwelling livebearer from the blackwater forest streams of Southeast Asia. The defining feature of this species is its extraordinary elongated lower jaw — a half-beak that in fully grown adults can reach nearly half the total body length, proportionally one of the most dramatic beaks of any halfbeak species in the hobby. The slender, torpedo-shaped body is richly colored in iridescent silver-green tones, with males displaying vivid red and orange coloration on the beak, fins, and tail. Native to slow-moving, heavily shaded blackwater streams and swamp forests of Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and western Borneo — environments characterized by soft, acidic, tannin-stained water and dense surface vegetation.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Wafers floating at the surface make an excellent staple — Forest Halfbeaks are dedicated surface feeders with small upturned mouths that are perfectly adapted for taking prey from the water surface. Supplement with Hikari Frozen Bloodworms and Hikari Freeze-Dried Daphnia. Feed at the surface only — sinking foods will be ignored. Small amounts twice daily.
Forest Halfbeaks thrive in blackwater-style planted aquariums with soft, acidic water, floating plants providing surface cover, dim lighting, and gentle filtration. Peat filtration or Indian almond leaves to maintain the tannin-stained conditions of their native habitat are highly recommended. A tight-fitting lid is absolutely essential — Forest Halfbeaks are accomplished jumpers, and the elongated beak makes them especially vulnerable to injury from jumping. Surface plants like frogbit, salvinia, or water lettuce provide both the cover and surface activity zones this species prefers.
Keep in peaceful community groups — males may display mild sparring behavior with each other, a behavior that gives the related Dermogenys the common name "Wrestling Halfbeak," but it is rarely damaging. Females give birth to live fry after a gestation of 3–4 weeks. Excellent tankmates include small blackwater tetras, rasboras, dwarf gouramis, and peaceful bottom dwellers. Avoid larger or nippy fish that may target the distinctive elongated beak.
An unusual and captivating addition to the aquarium — the extraordinary beak, surface-skimming behavior, and iridescent coloration make Forest Halfbeaks a genuine conversation piece. Rarely available in US aquarium stores.
| Difficulty | Easy to Intermediate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — Surface Dwelling Livebearer |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 4 minimum (mixed sexes) |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.0 — soft, acidic water preferred |
| Ideal GH | 1–10 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Wafers (surface floating); Hikari Freeze-Dried Daphnia |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen Bloodworms; live or frozen mosquito larvae |
| Tank Level | Surface dweller exclusively |
| Origin | Blackwater forest streams — Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, western Borneo |
| Notes | Livebearer. Elongated lower jaw nearly half body length. Dedicated surface feeder — sinking foods ignored. Blackwater conditions preferred. Secure lid essential — strong jumper. Beak vulnerable to injury from aggressive tankmates. |
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