Species profile
Banded Archerfish
Toxotes jaculatrix
Peaceful
Hard care
550 L minimum aquarium
20–30 cm adult size
Top mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Long-term brackish specialist; freshwater tolerance is not a reason to maintain adults as ordinary freshwater community fish.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–30 °C
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
12–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 6
Tank zone
Top mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3
Keep six or more similarly sized fish; smaller groups can produce persistent bullying.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
550 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Toxotes jaculatrix
Alternative names
Archerfish, Banded Archer Fish
Native range
Indo-West Pacific from South and South-East Asia to northern Australia and western Pacific islands.
Natural habitat
Mangroves, estuaries and tidal creeks. Long-term health requires brackish water. Use a 150 cm+ tank with a dropped water level and tightly covered airspace.
Diet & feeding
Floating carnivore foods, frozen foods and appropriately sourced insects; varied prepared food should remain the staple.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is not established.
Breeding
Not routinely bred in home aquaria.