The Silver Dollar (Metynnis argenteus) is a larger tetra species that has only recently been bred in captivity. This omnivorous species eats a great deal of vegetable matter and it is a very active schooling fish that makes for a great display fish in larger aquaria. It is very peaceful and makes an excellent tank mate for most fish species that are too large to be considered prey.
The Silver Dollar typically occupies the middle and top areas of the water column. It is a somewhat nervous fish, so a secure lid is necessary to ensure that it does not jump out of the aquarium when startled. Though it is a peaceful fish that is mostly herbivorous, it may prey on fish and invertebrates that are small enough to fit in its mouth. It requires a fair amount of cover to feel secure, but it will eat some aquarium plants. Only very durable live plants such as Anubias should be kept with the Silver Dollar, and even these plants may need to be replaced periodically.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Very rare, especially tank-bred specimens
- Active, schooling community fish that thrives in larger aquariums
- Compatible with most fish and many invertebrates
- Excellent centrepiece fish
- Adaptable to a wide variety of water conditions
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 73° - 81° F (23° - 27° C)
- pH: 6.0 - 7.0
- KH: 1 - 10 dKH
- Minimum tank size: 75+ gallons for a small school
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Omnivorous. Lots of vegetable matter is required. High quality dry foods will be accepted, but should be supplemented often with frozen and live foods.
- Social behaviour: Schooling/shoaling, and should be kept in as large of groups as possible. Peaceful with most other fish and invertebrates too large to be considered prey.