Banded archer fish

Scientific name: Toxotes jaculatrix

Country: Australia, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, India

Continent: Oceania

Diet: Omnivore

Food & feeding: Land insects, plant matter, small fish, crustaceans

Habitats: Mangrove swamp

Conservation status: Least concern

Relatives: Perch

Description: An adult banded archer fish can reach 20-30 cm in length. It has an oblong body shape, silver in colour with black, wedge shaped bands running down from its back. The snout is pointed with eyes positioned far forward.

Lifestyle: Archer fish are famous for their unusual hunting tactics. They lurk just beneath the surface under low lying vegetation. When they see the characteristic silhouette of an insect through a leaf they move into position. A powerful jet of water shoots from their mouth, knocking the insect into the water. Within just 50 milliseconds of it landing, the archer fish has the insect safely locked in its jaws.

Family & friends: When hunting, archer fish are sometimes seen together in small groups, often ‘shooting’ at the same target. As the insect drops into the water they all rush towards it, with one speedy winner claiming the prize.

Keeping in touch: Archer fish have great eyesight and depth perception. Studies have shown that archer fish aim more accurately after observing other members of the group shooting.

Growing up: Archer fish will lay between 20,000 – 150,000 eggs at a time, though rarely breed in captivity. They usually begin to breed when they reach about 10 cm long.

Conservation news: Although this species is not currently classed as endangered, they are threatened by the destruction of their mangrove habitat. Many are also collected and sold in the aquarium trade.