Scientific Name: Selenotoca multifasciata (Richardson, 1846)
Common Name: Silver scat
Synonyms: Spotbanded scat, silver argusfish, Southern butterfish, striped scat
Scientific Synonyms: Selenotoca multifasciatus
Similar species: Selenotoca papuensis. These two fish are virtually identical. Apparently they can be told apart since S. papauensis has fewer, wider bands and the spots on the flanks are larger. Other scats have a different body shape, having a generally higher back.
Origin: Indo-Pacific, found on the west and east coasts of Australia, further north to Indonesia and South-east Asia.
Habitat: Coastal sandy estuaries and mangrove swamps, as well as rock pools and reefs.
Size: Largest recorded size 40cm. Known to reach up to 30cm in captivity, 15 to 20cm more common.
Salinity and pH: As juveniles, they can be found in fresh water or slightly salty water (SG 1.005). Larger individuals occupy stronger brackish waters and marine water (SG 1.010 upwards). pH 7.0 to 8.5.
Temperature: 20 to 28C.
Natural diet: Bottom-dwelling invertebrates, detritus, vegetable matter.
Aquarium diet: Will accept almost any frozen, live or dry foods. Some vegetable matter in the diet is important. Will eat live plants in aquarium if present. Java fern is toxic to this fish.
Behaviour: A schooling fish.
Aquarium temperament: Non-aggressive, unless kept in small schools. Larger schools preferable. Will eat live plants and fish small enough to fit into their mouths. May school with other schooling species, especially in the genera Scatophagus, Selenotoca, and Monodactylus.
Breeding: Unknown sexual dimorphism or natural history relating to breeding. Juveniles found in estuaries, mangrove swamps and other low-salinity environments, and therefore adults may spawn inland or close to such environments.
Aquarium maintainence: Not difficult. A large tank and good filter are recommended to deal with the schooling behaviour, active nature and waste output of these fish. Plants not recommended due to possible consumption by scats. Appreciate some flow in the tank.
Traded? Fairly commonly.
Problems with care: Large size and waste output.
Notes: Venomous. Each spine houses a venom gland, which has venom that causes pain for some time. Non-fatal. Best treatment is to bathe the wound in warm water. If further problems arise, consult a medical professional.
