Description
Scientific Name: Metynnis argenteus (most common), Metynnis hypsauchen Origin: South America (Amazon and Paraguay River basins)
Physical Characteristics The Silver Dollar is instantly recognizable by its distinct shape.
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Body Shape: They have a tall, round, and extremely compressed body (thin from side to side), allowing them to slip through dense vegetation.
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Coloration: As the name implies, they are almost entirely metallic silver. Under certain lighting, you may see hints of green or blue. Males often have a longer anal fin edged in red.
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Size: They are quite large for a schooling fish, growing to about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter, roughly the size of a saucer.
Behavior and Temperament
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Schooling: These are strictly schooling fish. They are easily frightened and rely on the safety of a group. You should keep them in groups of at least 5 or more. If kept alone, they become extremely shy and stressed.
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The “Plant Eaters”: They are notorious herbivores. In the wild, they eat river vegetation. In an aquarium, they will readily devour almost all live plants, earning them the reputation of “underwater goats.”
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Relationship to Piranhas: They belong to the same family as Piranhas (Characidae), which explains their similar jaw structure, but they use their teeth for crushing seeds and leaves rather than tearing flesh.
Care and Habitat
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Tank Size: Because they are active swimmers and need to be kept in groups, they require a large tank—minimum 55 to 75 gallons.
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Decor: They prefer dim lighting and plenty of open swimming space. Because they eat live plants, most keepers use artificial plants or very tough species like Java Fern.
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Diet: They need a vegetable-rich diet. Spirulina flakes, algae wafers, and fresh vegetables like lettuce, spinach, cucumber, and peas are essential for their health.
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