Description
Archerfish are famous for their ingenious ability to direct a squirt of water at insects sitting above the water surface, knocking the insect down so that they can pounce on it. Large fish can precisely shoot water up to 2-3 meters in distance! There are even various stories of unsuspecting Archerfish owners having water squirted in their eye as they peered down over the tank! Archerfish can become very tame and make a great pet fish.
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Features of Archer Fish:
- Streamline silver diamond shaped body with black spots along side of body
- Large eye & upward shaped mouth to spit water above the water line
- Prefers brackish water
- Grows to up to 20cm in captivity
- Level of care: Intermediate
- Average Lifespan : Up to 10 years
The Best Aquarium Size for Archer Fish:
The recommended tank size for Archer Fish is a minimum 200L. These fish grow large and are active swimmers in the top level water column. Ensure aquariums have a secure lid, as they are keen jumpers and are known to spit water out of the aquarium.
Tank Mate Compatibility:
A schooling fish by nature, the Archer Fish is a semi aggressive fish and an avid hunter. We recommend keeping this species with other fish of similar size and temperament. Small species may been seen as a snack.
Here’s a list of some of the best tank mates for your Archer Fish:
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Archer Fish Diet:
Archer fish are primarily carnivore's and actively hunt, even in the aquarium. They will take best to live foods such as brine shrimp, blood worms, mealworms & crickets. Some fish may take to floating pellets, but will usually avoid sinking foods.
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Archer Fish Tank Set-up:
Heater :
Ideal water temperatures sit between at a stable number between 25 ⁰C - 28 ⁰C.
Aquarium Lighting :
LED lights will provide you with the most customization and allow you to adjust the intensity of light to replicate natural lighting. The Archer Fish will tolerate high levels of lighting.
Aquarium Substrate :
There is no preference for aquarium substrate. Archer Fish will spend their time within the upper water column.
Live Plants for Archer Fish:
They enjoy swimming in and around vegetation as they hunt for food in the upper water column. Brackish water is preferred, so ensure all plants have a salt tolerance level to some degree. Note that live aquatic plants may not live as long in brackish water.
Decorations for Archer Fish:
Artificial plants can work well, especially if keeping your fish in brackish water.
