Silver Dollar (Metynnis argenteus)

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Silver Dollar

Metynnis argenteus53847.jpg
Silver Dollar

Metynnis argenteus

208 Litres (55 US G.)

10.2-15.2cm (4-6 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

5.0 - 7.0

24 -28 °C (75.2-82.4°F)

10-15 °d

1:1 M:F

Herbivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Other (See article)

8-12 years

Family

Characidae



Additional names

Silver Dollar

Additional scientific names

Metynnis anisurus, Metynnis dungerni, Metynnis eigenmanni, Metynnis heinrothi, Myletes argenteus


Origin

South America


Sexing

Mature males have a longer anal fin and more red colouration.


Tank compatibility

A shoaling fish that should be kept in groups of 5 or more. Do not keep with aggressive fish nor with smaller fish. Keep with peaceful fish of similar size such as Severums.


Diet

Mainly vegetarian and will accept both flake and pellet foods, supplemented with blanched zucchini and spinach, etc., although some protein (bloodworms and larger foods for growing fish) are occasionally appreciated.


Feeding regime

Three to four times a week for young, growing fish. Twice a week is acceptable for larger specimens.


Environment specifics

These are large active fish that need plenty of lateral open swimming space combined with secure hiding places. They may nibble plants, so rock décor is best. The tank should be mature and well filtered.
This fish is also likely to eat plants and so keep in a planted tank with caution.


Behaviour

Very skittish, but peaceful. To avoid stressing the fish, keep them in groups of five or more and slowly acclimate them to light each day.


Identification

There are many fish that look very similar, they are either Metynnis, Mylossoma or Myleus. The Metynnis argenteus is a tall disc-shaped fish which is iridescent silver in colour with transparent fins. The belly has a reddish colour, more so in males, as do the pectoral and anal fins. The iris has a vertical bar through the centre of it.

Pictures

External links