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| Silver Dollar |
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| Metynnis argenteus |
| Origin: South America: Amazon. Temperament: Though belonging to the same family as piranhas, and closely resembling them, this fish is generally peaceful, though can become territorial. Size: Up to 15cm (6"). Temperature: 75-83°F or 24-28°C pH Level: 6.4 to 6.8 Food: Chiefly vegetarian. Eats flake food, pellets, mosquito larvae, peas, small insects and crustaceans, plant matter. Tank Setup: Keep in a planted tank, though be prepared for this fish to eat them as a supplement to their diet. Needs a large tank of 50 gallons or more. Breeding: Difficult. Very hard to breed in captivity as the conditions required are very particular. Sexing: In the male, the front part of the anal fin is extended into a lobe shape, whereas, in the female, it is straight along its whole length. Mature males tend to be more colourful also. Comments: Better kept with its own kind. Reacts well with most other fish. Can be shy and panic if startled. |
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