🐟 Smallscale Archerfish (Toxotes microlepis)
🐟 Smallscale Archerfish (Toxotes microlepis)
Surface Hunter • Brackish Schooling Fish • Fascinating Behavior Species
📋 The Smallscale Archerfish (Toxotes microlepis) is a smaller member of the archerfish family, with the same incredible hunting behavior: shooting water jets to knock down insects. Its silver body, with smaller scales and bold vertical bands, distinguishes it from the larger Toxotes jaculatrix.
Because it grows to about half the size of the Banded Archerfish, this species is a popular choice for aquarists who want the unique behavior of archerfish in a more manageable tank size. They are schooling by nature and should be kept in groups of at least 4 for best health and natural activity.
They require brackish conditions throughout life, making them ideal for a well-maintained brackish display aquarium.
💡 Highlights
✨ Smaller size than Banded Archerfish – max 6"
⚪ Shoots water to hunt insects – fascinating behavior
📏 Perfect for mid-size brackish tanks – 40+ gallons
✅ Peaceful schooling predator – thrives in groups
🐠 Eye-catching banded pattern – silver with black vertical stripes
🧾 Overview
🍽️ Feeding & 🛠️ Care Guide
📏 Retail Size Guide
❓ FAQ Guide
🧾 A Quick Look at the Smallscale Archerfish
📛 Common Name: Smallscale Archerfish / Lesser Archerfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Toxotes microlepis
👨👩👧 Family: Toxotidae
🌍 Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia)
📏 Max Size: 12 – 15 cm (≈ 5 – 6")
💧 pH Range: 7.0 – 8.0
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 30 °C (75 – 86 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Intermediate – requires brackish water & live food variety
💖 Temperament: Peaceful, active schooling predator
🪸 Reef Safe: No – will prey on inverts and small fish
🏠 Min Tank Size: 150 L (40 US gallons) for a small group
📌 Tank Level: Surface dweller
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 7 – 10 years
🍽️ Diet: Carnivore (insects, crustaceans, small fish)
🐣 Reproduction: Not bred in captivity; wild spawner

















