Fin's Fish Guide
The African scat (Scatophagus tetracanthus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Scatophagidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Africa: Australia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Somalia and others
Description
The African scat is a scat (Scatophagidae) from coastal, brackish and fresh water of eastern Africa and the western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a deep, strongly compressed, almost round body with broad dark crossbars on a silver-grey ground. As an omnivore it grazes in estuaries and mangroves on algae, detritus and small invertebrates. The stout dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the African scat?
The African scat has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Bears venomous spines or tissue; handle with great care.
Where does the African scat live?
The African scat lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Africa: Australia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Somalia and others
How big does the African scat get?
The African scat grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the African scat dangerous to humans?
The African scat is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the African scat edible?
Yes, the African scat is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Scatophagus
More from the family Scatophagidae
Want the complete picture on the African scat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the African scat is one of 12,519 species in the app.