How to Identify Banded scat

To identify Banded scat (Scatophagus tetracanthus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery-green to brownish-green body with 4-5 prominent dark vertical bands that extend from the dorsal fin to the belly. Fins are often dusky or yellowish. Juveniles are typically more brightly colored with more distinct bands.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, highly compressed body, Small, protractile mouth, Prominent dark vertical bands, Spiny dorsal fin with venomous spines

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 11-12 strong, venomous spines followed by 16-18 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are deeply notched.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Small, rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic, with 1 spine and 5 soft rays. Anal fin has 4 strong, venomous spines followed by 13-15 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a very deep, disc-shaped, and laterally compressed body.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Identify the 4-5 distinct dark vertical bands on a silvery-green to brownish-green background. These bands are a key differentiator from other scat species.

3. 3

   Fin Spines

   Note the strong, sharp spines in both the dorsal and anal fins. These are venomous and should be handled with extreme caution.

4. 4

   Mouth

   Observe the small, slightly protractile mouth, indicative of its omnivorous, scavenging diet.

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