Banded Archerfish - Toxotes jaculatrix : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Introduction

Banded Archerfish (Toxotes jaculatrix) is a remarkable species hailing from the Indo-Pacific region, including the coastal waters of northern Australia and extending eastwards to the Philippine Islands. This distinctive fish species is celebrated for its unique hunting technique of spitting water droplets with remarkable accuracy to dislodge insects from overhanging vegetation, a behavior that has earned it the moniker "Archerfish." With its captivating appearance, the Banded Archerfish has captured the fascination of aquarists and naturalists alike.

In their natural habitat, Archerfish exhibit a propensity for congregating in small groups, making it advisable to maintain them in shoals comprised of at least six specimens of comparable size within the aquarium environment. Such group dynamics serve to mitigate potential aggression-related issues, preventing certain individuals from being persistently singled out. Larger numbers of specimens not only align with their natural social behavior but also disperse any aggression evenly within the group. 

It is crucial to introduce the entire shoal simultaneously, as newcomers, particularly smaller individuals, may face resistance from established group members. Compatibility extends to the potential inclusion of other brackish water species, including juvenile Scats, Monodactylus species, Knight gobies, and Orange Chromides. However, it is imperative to ensure that any prospective tankmates are of an appropriate size, as larger Archerfish are fully capable of preying upon smaller fish.

The aquarium housing Banded Archerfish should boast spacious dimensions, ideally measuring at least 5 feet in length, 2 feet in width, and 2 feet in height. Maintaining a lowered water level within the tank, coupled with secure and well-fitting coverslides, encourages the natural water-shooting feeding behavior characteristic of these fish. Paludarium-style setups, featuring elements such as twigs and vegetation above the water's surface, are particularly conducive to their well-being.

To create a suitable habitat, aquascaping should include the incorporation of shadier zones, achieved through the strategic placement of substantial bogwood pieces and upright slate structures at the rear of the aquarium, complemented by resin root ornaments. These adjustments provide vital hiding spots and shaded areas that Archerfish often seek, especially when acclimating to a new environment. 

While Archerfish are compatible with aquatic vegetation, it is essential to select species that are tolerant of brackish conditions. Furthermore, given their sensitivity to pollutants, meticulous attention to water quality is imperative. Employing robust filtration systems and conducting frequent partial water changes are essential practices to maintain excellent water conditions. If housing these fish at the higher end of their preferred temperature range, adequate water oxygenation is critical for their well-being.

The Banded Archerfish exhibits distinctive coloration and physical characteristics. Its body displays varying shades of green, particularly in certain regions, while the dorsal side exhibits an olive-green or brown hue. Positioned towards the posterior end, the dorsal fin takes on a yellowish-green colouration and has a base shorter than that of the anal fin. The caudal fin showcases a "dirty green" colouration and maintains a consistent height until its point of attachment, where it gradually becomes shallower. In contrast, the anal fin presents a silver appearance.

The body of the Banded Archerfish is oblong in shape and features a raised posterior side. Typically, the body is predominantly silver-white in colour, although occasional variations, such as a yellowish tint, have been documented. Notably, four to six broad black bars may be present on the dorsal side, each with specific placements along the body. The first bar is positioned anterior to the operculum, which covers the gills, while the second bar resides behind the operculum. The third bar is located below the origin of the dorsal fin, with the fourth bar situated beneath the soft dorsal fin. In cases where a fifth bar is present, it typically appears on the caudal peduncle. It is worth noting that these bars tend to diminish in length as the fish matures, contributing to the unique visual profile of the Banded Archerfish.

Banded Archerfish are characterized by their prominent and comparatively large eyes, a feature that distinguishes them from many other fish species. Notably, these eyes are strategically positioned to facilitate binocular vision, contributing to their unique visual capabilities. The head of the Banded Archerfish exhibits a subtle proportion, slightly shorter in length compared to the body, and is characterized by a distinctively pointed snout. In their juvenile stage, these fish typically display dorsal coloration ranging from yellow-green to brown, while their ventral side adopts a silvery hue. Along the flanks of juvenile Banded Archerfish, a grey-green coloration is prevalent. Additionally, it is not uncommon to observe irregular yellow patches situated between the distinctive bands on some individuals, further enhancing their visual appeal.