Size
This fish might reach a size of 10–12 inches (25-30 cm).
Physical characteristics and behavior
Four dorsal spines, 11–13 dorsal soft rays, three (longest) anal spines, and 15–17 anal soft rays are all characteristics of banded archerfish. Usually, the first spine is the shortest, and the rays get shorter as they go back. There are 23 scales between the posterior nostrils and the dorsal spine. Having a green hue. The fish has a brown or olive-green back. The base of the dorsal fin is smaller than the anal fins. The caudal fin is identical in height up until its attachment point and is “dirty green.” It is silver.
Habitat
Setting for fish PH: 7.0 to 8.0; Strata: Top to hard; Minimum 55-gallon tank with headroom; dH 18+ 77-88F (25-31C) (25-31C)
As Pets
- The Archer Fish Requirements
As long as they are housed around giant fish so they do not prey on them, archer fish are a great choice for community aquariums. They are quite active and have a ten-year life expectancy, which they enjoy happily. Their breeding has expanded around the world.
To thrive in good conditions, they require at least 100 litres of water. The water should have a pH of 7-8, a gH > 15, and a temperature range of 23 to 28 °C. For their food, small insects or fry are good choices. Although it doesn’t require much in the way of upkeep, breeding it is thought to be challenging.
- Common Behavior
When interacting with members of their own species, archer fish are friendly, but they are hostile against small fish. They frequently engage in team hunting, each fish shooting at a single target. The fish who swims closest and fastest to the target insect receives the prize. The archer fish like to jump out of the water to catch the prey before another fish because the fish that first knocks down the prey is not always the one who ends up with the food.
- The aquarium
Banded archerfish require top-notch water quality, and their surroundings need to be routinely checked and water tested. For this fish, a 55 gallon aquarium is the very minimum size, and the taller the tank, the better. They like to jump, therefore there should be room above the waterline as well. The minimum aquarium size for adult specimens is about 45 cm deep and 2/3 full of water. This raises the water surface by a few inches so that the fish may spit out the food scraps lodged in the glass.
Since archer fish typically inhabit brackish mangroves, a thorough filtration system is essential to preserving their health. The water in their tank should likewise be brackish. They are advised to have plants that rise above the water to mimic their natural environment and moderate lighting. Floating timber and other twisted roots are excellent hiding spots, and fine sand or gravel should make up the bottom.
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