Platinum Clouded Archerfish (3”)

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Toxotes blythii

• Common Names: Platinum Clouded Archerfish,

• Family: Toxotidae

• Origin: Southeast Asia – primarily Myanmar and parts of Malaysia and Thailand

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; best kept in groups

• Lifespan: 8–10 years

This fish is a platinum or leucistic variant of the Clouded Archerfish, known for its stunning white-silver body and metallic sheen. Like all archerfish, it can shoot jets of water to knock insects into the water

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Found in slow-moving rivers, brackish mangroves, and estuaries with overhanging vegetation. Juveniles prefer freshwater, while adults may move into brackish waters.

• Water Type:

  • Juveniles: Freshwater

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 7.0–8.0

While some archerfish species tolerate freshwater long-term, brackish water improves longevity and health, especially for adults.

 Diet

• Carnivorous surface-feeder
  In the wild, they eat:

  • Insects

  • Spiders

  • Crustaceans

  • Small fish

• In Captivity:

  • Floating pellets for carnivores fish. We recommend hikari food sticks 

  • Live/frozen foods like crickets, flies, bloodworms, and small fish

  • Floating freeze-dried krill or shrimp

  • Can be trained to shoot at targets or tongs for food

Feed small meals frequently, and ensure all food floats or is placed at the surface.

 Maximum Size

• Adult Size:

  • Typically 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)

  • Some may reach up to 10 inches in optimal conditions

• Growth Rate: Moderate

 Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 75 gallons for a small group (3–5 individuals)

  • Long tanks are better than tall ones — they need horizontal swimming space and surface area

• Tank Setup:

  • Water Line: Leave a gap between the lid and water — they jump and shoot water!

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

  • Decor:

    • Floating or emergent plants

    • Overhanging driftwood, branches

    • Minimal obstructions at surface level

  • Lighting: Moderate to highlight their sheen

  • Filtration: Strong and stable (especially for brackish setups)

 Tank Mates

• Best kept in groups of 3 or more to reduce aggression and promote natural schooling

• Suitable tank mates

  • Scats

  • Monos

  • Large rainbowfish

  • Geophagus, Electric Blue Acara, Uaru etc.

Avoid very small fish (they’ll be eaten) or slow/fragile tank mates.

Special Notes on Behavior

• Excellent jumpers and shooters — keep a tight-fitting lid

• Social fish that thrive in groups

• Intelligent and observant — can learn feeding routines

• Sensitive to poor water quality — regular water changes are critical

• Best coloration and health achieved in slightly brackish water