Silver Dollar (Metynnis) Care Guide
Metynnis hypsauchen is a round, peaceful schooling characin from South America, a herbivorous relative of piranhas that readily eats aquarium plants.
Overview
Metynnis hypsauchen, commonly called the silver dollar, is a round, laterally compressed characin in the family Serrasalmidae. Described by Müller and Troschel in 1844, it is a peaceful, herbivorous relative of piranhas and pacus, and is frequently confused with the similar Metynnis argenteus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serrasalmidae
- Genus: Metynnis
- Scientific name: Metynnis hypsauchen
- Order: Characiformes
Habitat
The species occurs in the Amazon and Paraguay River basins and rivers of the Guiana Shield. FishBase classifies it as a tropical, pelagic freshwater fish of slightly acidic water.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 300 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 4-18 °dGH
- School size: 5 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
Metynnis hypsauchen is primarily herbivorous, with FishBase recording a trophic level around 3.5 reflecting a mostly plant-based diet supplemented by some animal matter. It eats virtually all soft aquarium plants, so planted layouts are difficult to maintain with this fish.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, middle-water schooling fish best kept in groups of five or more. Suitable companions include larger tetras and plecos; soft live plants are eaten and should be considered incompatible.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.