Archerfish, Banded
Scientific Name: Toxotes jaculatrix
Status: Data Deficient
Habitat: These fish inhabit the brackish waters of Australia, Polynesia, India, and the Philippines.
Diet: Insectivorous
Length: Size for this species ranges from 8 to 12 inches.
Archerfish have evolved an unusual method of capturing prey: they shoot down insects by squirting water from their mouths. To do this, the archerfish presses its tongue to the roof of its mouth, forming a tube. Then the gills are closed abruptly, forcing the water through it. The resulting water jet can reach more than six feet long. Archer fish have surprisingly accurate aim and can adjust the force of the water to most effectively dispatch different types of prey.
