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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 40.0cm / 15.75inches |
| Temperature | 25°C / 77.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 20-30ºdH |
| pH | 7.0-8.0 |
General DescriptionThe Largescale Archerfish, known scientifically as Toxotes chatareus, belongs to the Toxotidae family and can grow up to 40.0 cm in size. This species has a vast natural distribution spanning countries from Pakistan to northern Australia. It is predominantly found in brackish mangrove swamps and estuaries with dense vegetation cover.
Aquarium SetupFor keeping Largescale Archerfish in captivity, a tank of minimum 500 litres is recommended. Two main setups are suitable for these fish: a brackish aquarium with mangrove roots and tolerant plants, featuring slow water flow, or a biotope setup with a tall tank, water at half level, and dry land plus plants in the upper area to mimic their natural habitat. Water conditions should be maintained within a pH range of 7.0-8.0, hardness of 20-30°dH, and a temperature of 25-30°C.
BehaviourLargescale Archerfish are generally peaceful but may prey on smaller fish. They can exhibit aggression towards conspecifics, which can be reduced by keeping them in groups of 4 or 5 specimens. They can coexist with larger brackish fish like scats, monos, and green chromides.
Feeding and DietIn the wild, Largescale Archerfish feed on a variety of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, along with small fish. They are known for their unique feeding behavior of shooting jets of water at insects above the water to catch them. In captivity, they accept floating foods such as flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brineshrimp. Replicating their natural behavior by introducing live prey like crickets or fruit flies can be stimulating.
Reproduction & DimorphismBreeding Largescale Archerfish in captivity has not been recorded. In the wild, they produce large numbers of eggs in the tens of thousands. Unlike their near cousin, T. jaculatrix, the sexual dimorphism of Largescale Archerfish is not known.
Habitat and DistributionThe habitat of Largescale Archerfish includes freshwater rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, but they are predominantly found in brackish mangrove swamps and estuaries with dense vegetation. They are widespread across South and Southeast Asia, encompassing countries like India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Australia.