Juvenile -scats are very attractively marked, although some of the intensity of coloration is lost as they grow. A reddish “species,” or “subspecies,” is also available and is referred to as S. “rubrifrons, ” or S. argus atromaculatus. However, it is generally accepted that it is just a naturally occurring color variety of S. agrus. S. tetracanthus (African Scat) is only rarely seen in the hobby. Selenotoca multifasciata (Silver Scat) from Australia—also known as Striped Butterfish or Striped Scat—is occasionally available and has similar characteristics and requirements. In the wild, adult Scats are generally estuarine or saltwater fish. Juveniles enter freshwater, and are usually the Scats that are available in shops.
Other common name
- Argus Fish
Family
- Scatophagidae
Distribution
- Widely distributed in brackish and marine waters in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Size
- Up to 12in (30cm).
Behavior
- Lively peaceful shoaler.
Diet
- All foods accepted; a vegetable component is essential.
Aquarium
- Large and deep, with clumps of salt-tolerant (or artificial) plants*, and substantial open swimming areas. Well-filtered, alkaline, hard water important. Add 1 teaspoonful of salt per 1 Imp. gal (1 1/5 U.S. gal/4.5 I) to aquaria housing juveniles, gradually doubling this concentration as they grow. Eventually, nearly (or fully) saline conditions should be provided for adults. Temperature range: 68-82 F (20-28 C).
Breeding
- No documented accounts available.
*Note
- It has been reported that the Java fern (Microsorum pteropus) is toxic to scats.
