Banded Archerfish (Toxotes jaculatrix) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 100 gallons and 75-82°F. A surface-hunting fish famous for spitting jets of water at insects. Juveniles are sold in fresh water, but adults need brackish water to stay healthy, and they need a long tank with open space at the surface and a lid with a small gap.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameToxotes jaculatrix
FamilyToxotidae
OriginEstuaries and mangroves from India to Australia
Adult size6-10 in
Minimum tank100 gallons
Temperature75-82°F
pH7.5-8.5
TemperamentPeaceful with similar-sized fish; eats small fish and insects
Social behaviorGroups in a large tank, or single
Swim levelTop (surface)
DifficultyAdvanced
DietCarnivore: insects, crickets, shrimp, small frozen foods, sinking or floating pellets
Typical lifespan8-10 years

Quick tips

  • Plan on brackish water (slightly salty) as they grow; do not keep long term in pure fresh water.
  • Use a long tank and keep the water level a few inches below the lid.
  • Do not keep with small fish; it can swallow tankmates.

San Diego water

Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

Before you buy

Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.

Find it at Pet Zone

Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.

Pet Zone Convoy

4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm

Aquascaping, planted tanks

Pet Zone Mid-City

4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm

Monster fish, koi

More care guides