Spotted Archerfish - (Toxotes chatareus)

🐟 Spotted Archerfish – (Toxotes chatareus) – Brackish Water Surface Shooter

The Spotted Archerfish (Toxotes chatareus) is a fascinating brackish-water species famous for its ability to shoot precise jets of water to knock insects into the water for food. Native to mangroves, estuaries, and coastal river systems in Asia and Australia, this fish has a distinctive silver body marked with dark spots or blotches. Known for its sharp eyesight and unique hunting behavior, the Spotted Archerfish is a favorite for aquarists seeking an interactive and unusual display fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Spotted Archerfish (Toxotes chatareus)

• 📛 Common Names: Spotted Archerfish, Seven-Spot Archerfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Toxotes chatareus
• 🌍 Origin: Southeast Asia, Northern Australia, Indo-Pacific estuaries and mangroves
• 🎨 Appearance: Laterally compressed silver body with distinct black spots/blotches along the side
• 📏 Max Size: 8–12 inches (20–30 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Common in the brackish fish trade but less common in true freshwater form

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful toward similar-sized tankmates but may eat small fish or insects
• 🎯 Famous for shooting water jets at prey above the surface
• 🪵 Active surface-dwelling swimmer

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons
• 🌊 Prefers brackish water (SG 1.005–1.015) but can adapt to freshwater when young
• 🌿 Open swimming areas with some mangrove roots or branches for shelter
• 💡 Bright lighting to mimic natural environment

💧 Water Parameters – Spotted Archerfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.0–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Moderate to hard, with slight salinity preferred

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Surface Feeder

• 🦟 Insects (live or frozen)
• 🐟 Small feeder fish (with caution)
• 🦐 Frozen foods like mysis shrimp, krill, and bloodworms
• 🍽️ Will accept floating pellets once trained

📋 Spotted Archerfish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Spotted Archerfish is nature’s sharpshooter, capable of spitting water jets at prey with incredible accuracy—making it one of the most unique and interactive fish in the hobby.