Scatophagus argus diet, feeding habits and biochemical composition

In the Indo-Pacific region, the spotted scat (Scatophagus argus) is extensively dispersed. In some areas of its distribution, this species is a desirable brackish water aquarium fish and a significant food fish. An investigation into eating patterns, physical condition, and the metabolic makeup of muscles was conducted. According to the current study on diet and feeding, the majority of the fish's gut contents were made up of algae and debris. The ecology of spotted cats' feeding was adaptable, and they chose their prey based on relative abundance. The lengthening of the stomach contents indicated an ontogenetic change in nutrition. According to the findings, an omnivorous fish's relative gut length is 3.1 (with a range of 2.14 to 3.96), which is generally regarded as normal. The biochemical makeup of the fish S. argus's muscles was investigated. Its proximate composition showed seasonal fluctuation.

Key Words:  Scatophagus, condition factor, spotted scat, omnivorous