Gold Archer Fish - 7.5cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Toxotes microlepis
• Common Name: Archerfish (Gold Color Freshwater Archerfish)
• Adult Size: 6–10 inches (15–25 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years in captivity
• Habitat: Freshwater and brackish waters of Southeast Asia, typically slow-moving rivers, estuaries, and mangroves

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (larger preferred due to active swimming and size)
• Ideal Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH Range: 7.0–8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate (10–20 dGH)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be predatory towards smaller fish; best kept with similarly sized or robust tankmates

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • In the wild, it feeds mainly on insects, small crustaceans, and small fish
  • In captivity, prefers live or frozen foods like insects, shrimp, and small fish; will also accept high-quality pellets or flakes

Appearance

• Coloration: Gold-colored variant has a shiny golden body with faint dark vertical bars and spots
• Body Shape: Compressed, laterally flattened body with an upturned mouth adapted for shooting water
• Size: Medium-sized, streamlined for surface feeding

Distinctive Features

• Famous for shooting jets of water to knock insects and prey off overhanging vegetation
• Highly developed eyesight and precision hunting skills
• Adapted mouth with a sharp angle for water shooting
• Active surface-dwelling fish require open swimming space and floating plants for hunting practice