🐟 Silver Scat (Scatophagus argus)
🐟 Silver Scat (Scatophagus argus)
Algae & Detritus Control • Brackish Community Fish • Hardy Schooling Species
📋 The Silver Scat (Scatophagus argus) is a striking brackish-water fish with a silvery body marked by dark spots, giving it a spotted, almost leopard-like appearance. It is a highly active schooling fish, best kept in groups of 4 or more.
Juveniles may be raised in low-end brackish or even freshwater temporarily, but as they mature, they require full brackish to marine conditions for long-term health. Their diet consists of algae, detritus, and small invertebrates, making them useful tank cleaners in larger brackish aquariums.
Known for their hardiness, adaptability, and long lifespan, Silver Scats are excellent centerpiece fish for experienced aquarists with the proper setup.
💡 Highlights
✨ Silvery body with dark spots – unique appearance
⚪ Brackish to marine species – requires saltwater as an adult
📏 Can grow up to 15" – needs very large aquariums
✅ Hardy and long-lived – lives 15–20 years
🐠 Schooling fish – thrives in groups for natural behavior
🧾 A Quick Look at the Silver Scat
📛 Common Name: Silver Scat
🔬 Scientific Name: Scatophagus argus
👨👩👧 Family: Scatophagidae
🌍 Origin: Indo-Pacific region (India, Thailand, Philippines, northern Australia)
📏 Max Size: 30 – 38 cm (≈ 12 – 15")
💧 pH Range: 7.5 – 8.5 (requires brackish to marine conditions as adult)
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 28 °C (75 – 82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Intermediate (needs brackish/marine setup as it matures)
💖 Temperament: Peaceful, schooling species
🪸 Reef Safe: Semi – may nip at corals/algae in marine setups
🏠 Min Tank Size: 380 L (100 US gallons) minimum
📌 Tank Level: Mid to top
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 15 – 20 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (algae, detritus, vegetables, small invertebrates)
🐣 Reproduction: Not bred in captivity; spawning occurs in the wild
