Archer

Archer Scientific Name: Toxotes jaculatrix
Recommended Aquarium: 55+ Gallons
Approx. Adult Size: 10 to 15 inches
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Ease of Care: Moderate
Diet: Carnivore
Native Waters: South America

This fish is known to come to the surface of the water and shoot a thin stream of water at insect targets on branches above the water and quickly swallowing the prey when it hits the water’s surface. Archers are also well known for their jumping ability, and can jump out of the water to grab an insect above without shooting it down. A secure top should be on any aquarium housing an Archer, to keep the fish from jumping out onto the floor. These fish can reach lengths of 15 inches in the wild, but in captivity they are more often seen at 9 or 10 inches in length as adults. Archer fish will eat a variety of commercially available foods such as bloodworms but will also eat small live insects that hit the surface water of the aquarium they are housed in.

Approximate arrival size for Archer: 2 inches