Small-scale Archerfish

Toxotes microlepis is the most freshwater-adapted archerfish species, found throughout the river systems of Thailand and the lower Mekong in fresh and slightly brackish conditions. It reaches up to 15 cm and displays the same remarkable prey-shooting behaviour as T. jaculatrix. It is particularly popular in Thailand where it is a culturally significant fish.

Water: 24–28 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderately hard freshwater to mild brackish. Tank: 200 L minimum; leave at least 15 cm of air gap above water surface for hunting behaviour. Feeding: Carnivorous; crickets, mealworms, floating pellets, and frozen krill. Behaviour: Social and interactive; keep in groups of 3–5; spits at food items above the waterline. Compatibility: Other medium-to-large freshwater or brackish fish; avoid very small tankmates.