Family: Toxotidae
Distribution: Toxotes jaculatrix, commonly known as the Banded Archerfish, is a freshwater and brackish species found throughout Asia and Oceania, specifically from India to the Philippines and south to Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and northern parts of Australia.
PH: 7.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 25°C – 30C (77 – 86F)
Hardness: 18 – 30 dH
Description: In the wild Toxotes jaculatrix can reach a maximum length of 30 cm, but it is generally around the 20 cm mark. This fish has a flat-top and a dorsal fin that extends backwards, allowing it to hunt at the water’s surface. Its eyes are huge and located near the front of its head. This species has a metallic silver colouration and some large black stripes that run down from the top of the body down to about halfway.
Diet: Toxotes jaculatrix should be fed live insects, if possible, as they are its main source of food in the wild. Flies, spiders, mosquitoes, beetles, earthworms – basically anything you offer will be well received by this species.
Breeding: This is a tough species to breed, not least because the fish are impossible to sex. You will have to keep Toxotes jaculatrix in large groups and hope for the best. The pair will spawn at the surface and lay up to 3000 eggs, which should be transferred to a holding tank to hatch. The fry, which take about 12 hours to hatch, can be given small insects and floating foods.
Comments: The Banded Archerfish can live in freshwater, but it should be noted that it is a better idea to keep them in a brackish environment for health reasons. Keep this schooling species in at least a 55 gallon tank and add a sandy substrate to simulate its natural environment. The tank should be between half and three-quarters full, and you should provide plenty of swimming space and some heavily planted areas with hiding places. This species requires some moderate care and is not recommended to beginners.
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Recommended Compatible Species: This peaceful shoaling fish should be kept in large groups and not with large, aggressive tank mates. You might be able to tank Toxotes jaculatrix with Monos, Scats and small Puffers.
Originally posted 2010-01-26 21:37:16. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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