Ruby Scat (2.5-3”)

Scientific Name: Scatophagus rubrifuscus

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Grows up to 12–14 inches (30–35 cm) in captivity, sometimes larger in the wild

• Lifespan of around 10–15 years with proper care

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Water Parameters:

• Tank size: 40-90 gallons for juveniles, larger 125-180 gallons for adults due to size and activity

• Water changes: 30-50% weekly to maintain water quality

• Parameters:

  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

  • pH: 7.0–8.5
    

  • They can survive in freshwater all their life just take note they are more prone to diseases. They will thrive in Brackish/Marine conditions.

Tankmates:

• Good companions include: Monos, Archerfish, Green Chromides, Large Silver Dollars and Barbs, large catfish and plecos.

• Avoid: Small fish (may be eaten), delicate or slow-moving species, and aggressive cichlids that may harass them

Diet:

• Omnivorous with a herbivorous tendency

• In the aquarium they accept: algae wafers, spirulina pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas), along with meaty items like shrimp, krill, and quality pellets

• Natural grazers that pick at algae and detritus

Natural Environment:

• Native to Southeast Asia, New Guinea, and Northern Australia

• Found in estuaries, mangroves, tidal rivers, and coastal lagoons where fresh and saltwater mix

• Adaptable to changing salinity levels but thrive best in brackish waters with dense vegetation and submerged roots

Breeding:

• Breeding in captivity is extremely rare and not well documented

• In the wild, spawning occurs in full marine conditions, with eggs carried out to sea by tides

• Juveniles are commonly found in estuarine and brackish environments

• Due to this complex lifecycle, they are generally not bred in home aquariums; most available in the hobby are wild-caught or sourced from specialized farms