
Shortnose River Garfish
NameShortnose River Garfish
Scientific NameZenarchopterus kampeni
Common NamesShortnose River Garfish, Kampen's Halfbeak, Short-nosed Halfbeak
FamilyZenarchopteridae
OriginSoutheast Asia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia
Temperamentcommunity
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)40
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarger Tetras, Rasboras, Gouramis, Peaceful Cichlids (e.g., Kribensis), Bottom Dwellers (e.g., Corydoras, Loaches), Other similarly sized, peaceful surface/mid-water fish
Description
The Shortnose River Garfish is a slender, surface-dwelling fish characterized by its elongated lower jaw. While generally peaceful, they are predatory towards small invertebrates and fish that can fit into their mouth. They are native to freshwater rivers and estuaries of Southeast Asia, tolerating some brackish conditions.




