Fin's Fish Guide
The Argus fish (Scatophagus argus) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Scatophagidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Indo-West Pacific, in harbours, bays, brackish estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers, often among mangroves.
Description
The spotted scat is an Indo-West Pacific fish (family Scatophagidae) living in harbours, bays, brackish estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers, often among mangroves. The species grows to about 45 cm and has a deep, disc-shaped, silvery-grey to brownish body covered with dark spots. The dorsal-fin spines are venomous and can cause painful stings. It is an omnivore feeding on worms, crustaceans, insects and plant matter, including detritus. The species is of modest commercial value and is also kept as an aquarium fish, especially as a juvenile.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Argus fish?
The Argus fish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Deep, disc-shaped body with dark blotches; venomous dorsal fin spines; lives among mangroves.
Where does the Argus fish live?
The Argus fish lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Indo-West Pacific, in harbours, bays, brackish estuaries and the lower reaches of rivers, often among mangroves.
How big does the Argus fish get?
The Argus fish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Argus fish dangerous to humans?
The Argus fish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from the venomous spines: immerse the affected area in hot water (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to ease pain, clean the wound, and seek medical care if symptoms are severe.
Is the Argus fish edible?
The Argus fish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Argus fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argus fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Argus fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Argus fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.