Description

Green Scat Fish (Scatophagus argus)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Scatophagus argus
Common Names: Green Scat, Spotted Scat, Argus Fish, Spotted Butterfish
Family: Scatophagidae
Order: Perciformes
Origin: Widespread across the Indo-Pacific region — from India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia to Northern Australia
Size: 20 – 30 cm (8 – 12 inches)
Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
Tank Zone: Mid to lower region

🌊 Water Parameters

Temperature: 25 – 30°C (77 – 86°F)
pH: 7.5 – 8.5
Hardness: 10 – 25 dGH
Salinity: Brackish to light marine (1.005 – 1.015 SG)

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Deep, laterally compressed, almost disc-shaped — built for strong swimming.
Coloration: Olive-green to silvery body covered with dark round or irregular black spots.
Pattern: Juveniles often display more pronounced spots and yellowish hues, while adults develop a greener tone.
Fins: Dorsal and anal fins are sharp and spiny — handle carefully.
Behavior: Active, social schooling fish that prefers open swimming spaces.
Special Feature: The Scat’s ability to thrive in both freshwater (as juveniles) and brackish/marine conditions (as adults) makes it a unique transitional species.

🍽️ Diet

Type: Omnivorous with a preference for algae and detritus.
Diet: Spirulina-based pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (spinach, lettuce), frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp.
Feeding Frequency: 2 times daily in moderate portions.
Tip: They help naturally control algae growth in brackish tanks.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters (65 gallons) for a small group.
Filtration: Strong filtration and aeration; Scats produce a significant bio-load.
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel.
Decor: Use driftwood, hardy plants (like Anubias or Java Fern), and open swimming areas.
Lighting: Moderate to bright to promote algae growth (they love grazing).
Water Change: 25–30% weekly; ensure stable salinity levels if kept in brackish setup.

👥 Social Behavior

Group Size: Best kept in groups of 4 or more for natural schooling behavior.
Tank Mates: Suitable with other brackish species like Monos, Archers, and Mollies.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Compatibility: Peaceful but active; keep with similarly sized tank mates.

✅ Do’s
• Gradually increase salinity as they mature.
• Provide algae-based diet regularly.
• Keep the tank well-covered — Scats can jump.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid soft, acidic freshwater as adults.
• Don’t house with small or delicate fish.
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent water fouling.

⭐ Quick Tip
The Green Scat Fish is an energetic and hardy species loved for its spotted beauty and adaptability between freshwater and marine environments. Perfect for brackish aquariums, this striking fish adds both movement and personality to large community setups.