Celebes Halfbeak Rainbowfish

Marosatherina ladigesi is closely related to the Celebes Rainbowfish and shares its endemic Sulawesi origin and requirement for hard, alkaline water. It adopts a surface-skimming lifestyle, using its halfbeak jaw to snatch insects and invertebrates from the water surface. Males display attractive yellow and blue fin colouration. An interesting and unusual species for the dedicated intermediate aquarist.

Water: 24–28°C, pH 7.0–8.0, hard to very hard water; stable conditions. Tank: 60 L+, tight-fitting lid essential; surface swimming space; gentle flow. Feeding: Omnivore; floating flakes, freeze-dried insects, and small live/frozen foods. Behaviour: Peaceful surface-dweller; jumps readily — always keep covered. Compatibility: Best with other Sulawesi species or bottom-dwelling peaceful fish.