Tropical fish Silver Dollar (Metynnis hypsauchen) is native to tributaries and rivers of Amazon, South America. The round shape and silver color of its body lend the Silver Dollar a very appropriate name. Silver Dollar is also known as piranha imitator because its body shape resembles a piranha fish but it is generally herbivores, meaning that it prefers greens. Of course putting this freshwater fish species in tanks full of live aquarium plants is really a disaster. With a maximum size of 6", Silver Dollars are perfect for the larger community aquarium. This hardy characin will be a great choice for the beginner to the expert aquarist.
Silver Dollar fish originated from tropical regions and comfort to live around the shady water and not too bright. Rocks, plants, and driftwood help mirror its natural habitat and will help to reduce stress on the fish, though plastic plants may be necessary due to their herbivorous nature. They do best in soft, slightly acidic water with high filtration.
The tropical fish are a lively schooling fish and best kept in groups of three or more. Silver Dollar will breed occasionally in an aquarium setting and a hospital or "breeding tank" with clumps of floating plants to spawn between will be necessary. Slightly acidic water is best for optimal breeding habits. After the eggs are laid removing the parents will be necessary to reduce the number of lost fry.
As a herbivorous fish, Silver Dollars need plenty of vegetable matter in their daily diet. Algae wafers, flake foods or any other suitable foods should be fed multiple times daily, keeping a close watch to make sure they are getting their share from more aggressive eaters such as barbs and tetras. In order to ensure Silver Dollar stay healthy, hobbyist even goes to the extent of feeding cereals which will enhance the silver coloration on their body.
