Species Profile
Spotted Scat
Scatophagus argus
Also known as: Argusfish, Spotted Butterfish
Oddballspeaceful
Adult size
14″
Minimum tank
125 gal
Temperature
75–82°F
pH
7.8–8.5
Schooling
Group of 4+
Water level
mid
Grows from juvenile
Typically sold at ~2.5″ and reaches 14″ over ~2 years. Plan tank size for the adult, not the fish at purchase.Diet
Veggie flake, marine pellets, blanched spinach, frozen krill — needs heavy plant matter
Notes
Coin-shaped silvery body with dark spots, tall sail-like dorsal. Juveniles brackish, adults marine — plan for a big saltwater conversion at 4–5 years. Peaceful schooler; venomous dorsal spines mean careful handling but no real risk to tankmates.
Photo: Karelj / Wikimedia Commons · Source · Public domain