Common Name: Red Fin Silver Dollar
Scientific Name: Metynnis argenteus
Other Names: Silver Dollar Fish, Red Hook Silver Dollar
The Red Fin Silver Dollar is a popular freshwater fish known for its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. It features a shiny, silver body with distinctive red-tipped fins, giving it an eye-catching contrast. This species is highly sought after by aquarists for its beauty and ease of care.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Red Fin Silver Dollar is native to the rivers and floodplains of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, including countries like Brazil, Peru, and Guyana. These fish inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and areas with dense vegetation. The natural habitat provides plenty of hiding spots and a rich source of plant matter for feeding.
Size and Lifespan:
In both the wild and captivity, Red Fin Silver Dollars can grow up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length. With proper care, their lifespan can range from 10 to 12 years, depending on the quality of their diet and water conditions.
Diet and Behavior:
Red Fin Silver Dollars are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant matter in their natural habitat. In an aquarium, their diet should include high-quality vegetable-based pellets, spirulina tablets, and fresh vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, and peas. They may also accept flake foods and occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. These fish are known for their peaceful and social behavior, making them suitable for community tanks. They are active swimmers and should be kept in groups of at least five to thrive.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Red Fin Silver Dollars in captivity is possible and can be relatively straightforward. They are egg scatterers, with females laying eggs on submerged plants or other surfaces. To encourage breeding, provide a spacious tank with plenty of plants or spawning mops, maintain optimal water conditions with regular water changes, and feed a varied diet to enhance their health and breeding readiness. Successful breeding typically requires slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and active nature, Red Fin Silver Dollars require a large aquarium, with a minimum of 75-100 gallons recommended for a group of adults. The tank should have a soft, sandy or fine gravel substrate to prevent injury to their delicate barbels. Include plenty of plants, driftwood, and rocks to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintaining water quality. The water temperature should be kept between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and soft to moderately hard water.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Red Fin Silver Dollars are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, peaceful cichlids, and other medium-sized community fish. Avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species that may cause stress or injury.
Difficulty Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. Red Fin Silver Dollars are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for aquarists with some experience. Their peaceful nature and striking appearance make them a great addition to community tanks.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-6 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal)
Additional Information:
- The Red Fin Silver Dollar’s shiny silver body and vibrant red fins make it a standout addition to any community aquarium.
- They are known for their peaceful and social behavior, often swimming in schools and interacting with other tank mates.
- Fun fact: Despite their peaceful nature, Red Fin Silver Dollars have strong teeth adapted for grazing on plants, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of plant-based food to keep them healthy and satisfied.
