Silver Dollars are small fish that are round in shape and silver in color, hence the common name of "Silver Dollar." Smaller cousins to the huge Pacus of the Amazon, Silver Dollars are herbivorous plant eaters that make great additions to the community aquarium.

In some habitats the Silver Dollar may have a dark spot on its side. In fact, there are several species from the genus Metynnis, as well as the genus Mylossoma that are sold as Silver Dollars. Some species are more elongated, some spotted and some are striped. Generally the Metynnis species sport a large adipose fin while the Mylossoma display a small adipose fin. Metynnis argenteus, shown in the picture here, is the most commonly seen Silver Dollar.

Any spots or dark markings on the fish's body are likely to fade with age. The anal fin of a healthy Silver Dollar is edged in an orange or red color.

Tank Setup

These Characins should be kept in schools of five or more. Although they don't get overly large, Silver Dollars are quick fish that need their space. Provide an aquarium of no less than 30 gallons for a small school. The tank should be decorated with bogwood and plants, though plastic plants may be nessessary due to their herbivorous nature. Keep the light levels low; Silver Dollars fright easy and are generally shy fish.

Feeding

As previously mentioned, Silver Dollars are herbivorous and thus need plenty of vegetable matter in their daily diet. Crushed algae tablets make an ideal treat. Flake foods or any other suitable food should be fed several times daily. When feeding your fishes it is recommended that you make sure your Silver Dollars are getting their share of food as they are often "out-matched" at feeding time by more aggressive feeders such as large barbs and tetras.

Water Chemistry

Silver Dollars are hardy fish that can withstand a wide variety of water conditions. The recommended pH for the aquarium is anywhere between 6.5-7.2. The water should be soft and kept at a temperature between 75-82 degrees F.

Breeding

Spawning information on Metynnis argenteus is mixed, but the species is said to lay its eggs in and around floating plants. Males have a longer anal fin than females.