Butter Fish (Scatophagus argus)

Family: Scatophagidae

Butter Fish — a Scatophagidae from Central and North America. Reaches 33.8–49.5 cm; keep at 20–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
20–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
33.8–49.5 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful community fish
Origin
Central and North America

Species overview

A Scatophagidae species native to Central and North America: Scatophagus argus lives middle of the water column over warm freshwater streams and lakes. Peaceful community fish. Adults reach 33.8–49.5 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups recommended
Diet
Omnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Not documented in home aquaria

Frequently asked questions

Is Butter Fish easy to keep?

Difficulty: moderate. Peaceful community fish. Small groups recommended.

What temperature and water chemistry does Butter Fish need?

Set the heater to 20–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15 dGH suit it.

How big does Butter Fish get, and what tank size?

Full size is 33.8–49.5 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its middle of the water column habits.

What does Butter Fish eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Butter Fish live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Peaceful community fish — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Butter Fish come from?

Native to Central and North America, where it lives in warm freshwater streams and lakes. Still to gentle current; Moderate oxygen levels.

Does Butter Fish jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Butter Fish breed?

Not documented in home aquaria. Subtle external differences.