Toxotes jaculatrix — Banded Archerfish
Family: Toxotidae
Origin: Coastal estuaries and mangrove swamps of Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, and India
Size: Up to 25 cm (10 inches)
Lifespan: 5–10 years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Brackish and freshwater estuaries, mangroves, and river mouths
Water Conditions: Typically found in slightly salty (brackish) water with overhanging vegetation
Temperature Range: 24–30°C (75–86°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: Laterally compressed, deep-bodied fish with an upturned mouth
Coloration:
Silver body with 4–6 bold black vertical bars
Fins often have a yellowish tint
Large eyes adapted for targeting prey above water
Unique Feature: Can shoot jets of water from its mouth to knock insects off branches above the surface — a specialized hunting behavior
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres (55 gallons) for a small group
Water Parameters:
pH: 7.0–8.0
Salinity: Brackish water recommended (1.005–1.010 SG), though juveniles tolerate freshwater
Hardness: 8–20 dGH
Temperature: 24–30°C (75–86°F)
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
Décor:
Use driftwood and plants tolerant of brackish conditions
Floating plants or branches can encourage natural hunting behavior
Tank Lid: Secure lid required — Archer Fish are known jumpers
 
Diet
Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods:
Insects (live or frozen), crickets, flies, small crustaceans
May accept high-quality floating pellets and flakes
Feeding Behavior:
Fascinating to observe when targeting prey above the water surface
Can be trained to shoot at floating or hanging food
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Peaceful but predatory
Best kept in small groups of 4–6 for natural behavior
Compatible Tank Mates:
Other brackish-tolerant species of similar size (e.g., Scats, Monos, Gobies)
Avoid small fish that may be seen as prey
Behavior Notes:
Intelligent and visually oriented
Prefers upper water levels and needs room to swim
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Egg scatterer
In Captivity: Rarely bred in home aquariums due to specific brackish spawning requirements and limited success
Fry Care: Very few records; likely require marine or brackish conditions to raise
 
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated
Notes: A fascinating species best suited to experienced aquarists with knowledge of brackish systems. Their unique hunting method makes them a captivating display fish when housed correctly.