🐟 General Overview

• Common Name: Silver Dollar Fish

• Scientific Name: Metynnis argenteus (and related species like Metynnis hypsauchen)

• Family: Characidae (same family as Piranhas and Tetras)

• Origin: Rivers of South America, especially the Amazon Basin

• Lifespan: 8–12 years in captivity

• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups

• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate

🌊 Appearance

• Shape: Round, flat, and silvery — resembling an actual silver coin.

• Color: Bright metallic silver with a shimmering, reflective surface; males may develop a reddish tint on the fins or belly.

• Size: Typically 6 inches (15 cm) long, though some can reach 8 inches in spacious tanks.

🏡 Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (for a small group)

• Ideal Setup:

  • Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water

  • Plenty of swimming space

  • Plants (preferably hardy or artificial ones, as Silver Dollars often nibble on live plants)

  • Driftwood and rocks for hiding spots

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Hardness: 4–18 dGH

🍃 Diet

• Type: Primarily herbivorous

• Foods:

  • Fresh vegetables (spinach, lettuce, peas, cucumber, zucchini)

  • Algae wafers

  • Flake or pellet foods for herbivorous fish

  • Occasional frozen or live protein (brine shrimp, bloodworms) as treats

Avoid overfeeding protein — it can cause digestive issues.

🐠 Behavior & Tankmates

• Nature: Peaceful schooling fish; happiest in groups of at least 5–6.

• Compatible Tankmates:

  • Other peaceful species like Tetras, Corydoras, Plecos, and larger Gouramis

  • Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species

• Caution: They can eat soft or small plants — so choose hardy ones like Anubias or use artificial decor.

🧬 Sexing

• Males: Slightly smaller with red or orange tints on the fins.

• Females: Rounder and larger in body shape.

🐣 Breeding

• Breeding Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

• Requirements:

  • Separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water

  • Temperature around 28°C (82°F)

  • Dim lighting

• Spawning: Males chase females; eggs are scattered among plants.

• Fry Care: Feed newly hatched fry with infusoria or liquid fry food until large enough for baby brine shrimp.

⚕️ Health & Care Tips

• Keep good water quality — Silver Dollars are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite.

• Perform regular partial water changes.

• Provide a balanced herbivorous diet to prevent malnutrition.

• Watch for signs of ich or fin rot if stress or poor water conditions occur.

🌟 Fun Facts

• Their reflective scales help them blend into the water, acting as natural camouflage.

• Despite their peaceful nature, they are close relatives of the Piranha.

• Their round shape and quick movements make them look like flashing coins underwater — hence the name Silver Dollar.

IMAGES ARE FOR REPRESENTATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.