Care
Not to be confused with the more commonly available brackish species, in the wild, freshwater archerfish tend to inhabit relatively shallow waters underneath the cover of forest canopies - where they are most likely to find insects to eat - often among the shelter of dense aquatic vegetation or the cover of undercut banks. They require ample swimming space, so a roomy tank is necessary. This should be mature, dimly lit, and the water well-filtered via an external canister to help deal with the wastes of these moderately sized predatory fish. Ensure that the aquarium is oxygenated well via supplemental aeration/powerheads, particularly if maintaining the fish at the upper end of its preferred temperature range. Although there should be plenty of open swimming space, some thought must be given to creating a few shady areas for the fish to retreat to, such as tall pieces of driftwood and overhanging/floating robust or plastic plants. Archers tend to become more territorial with age, so visual barriers may be necessary. This species is best maintained either singly or in groups; the latter being far more natural for the fish. Pairs tend to squabble until the weaker fish succumbs " this is so easily avoided by keeping an appropriate larger number. Tankmates should be peaceful and of a similar size, as adults will prey on small fish. Ideally stick to fish that are "˜taller"™ in the body (i.e. not torpedo shaped) and that are at least 2/3 the size of the archerfish; anything smaller is likely to be seen as food. Do ensure that the aquarium has a tight fitting cover as these nervous fish are notorious jumpers.
Feeding
In their native habitat, archerfish will feed on insects (which they leap at or shoot water at to make them fall into the water), small fish and crustaceans. In the aquarium, they will readily take a varied diet of dried and frozen meaty foods " particularly items that are slow to sink.
Breeding
Very little is known about the breeding habits of archerfish, particularly the freshwater species.
