Banded archerfish
Toxotes jaculatrix · Toxotidae
Also known as Archer fish
Advanced
Shoots insects down with a jet of water; needs a wide, half-filled tank with an open lid gap.
In short: A banded archerfish needs at least 450 L (119 US gal), water at 25–30 °C (77–86 °F) and pH 7.5–8.5. It is semi-aggressive, best kept in groups of 3 or more, and rated advanced to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 450 L (119 US gal)
- Temperature
- 25–30 °C (77–86 °F)
- pH
- 7.5–8.5
- Adult size
- 25 cm (9.8 in)
- Group size
- 3+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 450 L (119 US gal)
- Temperature
- 25–30 °C (77–86 °F)
- pH
- 7.5–8.5
- Hardness
- 12–30 dGH
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Diet
- Carnivore/insectivore — crickets, floating pellets, prawn, bloodworm.
- Care level
- Advanced
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Indo-Pacific mangroves including Indian coasts
- Water type
- Brackish
- Biotope
- Mangrove surface waters
- Natural conditions
- Specific gravity 1.005–1.015; wide surface, overhanging décor, secure lid.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Minimum group
- 3 fish
- Swims
- Top
- Good tank mates
- Mono argentusScatsLarge mollies
- Avoid
- Small fishShrimpShallow tanks
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- No reliable difference.
- Notes
- Not bred in home aquaria.
- Common ailments
- IchJaw damage from hard décorRefusing dry food
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