About the Spotted Silver Dollar
Name: Spotted Silver Dollar (Metynnis maculatus)
Max Size: Spotted Silver Dollars, scientifically known as Metynnis maculatus, can grow up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter.
Water Parameters: These fish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. Maintain a water temperature between 75-82Β°F (24-28Β°C) to keep them comfortable.
Diet: Spotted Silver Dollars are omnivorous, so their diet should include a variety of foods. Offer them high-quality flakes or pellets as their primary food source and supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and plant matter like blanched spinach.
Temperament: Spotted Silver Dollars are known for their peaceful nature, making them great additions to community aquariums. They are social fish that thrive when kept in groups.
Schooling or Non-Schooling Fish: Spotted Silver Dollars are schooling fish and should be maintained in groups of at least five to ensure they feel secure and display their natural behaviors.
Possible Types of Tank Mates: These Silver Dollars are compatible with a wide range of peaceful community fish, including tetras, angelfish, and gouramis. However, avoid housing them with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
Tank Setup: Provide a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room. Decorate the tank with live plants, driftwood, and rocks. Adequate filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain good water quality.
Behavior: Spotted Silver Dollars are active swimmers that exhibit schooling behavior. They are recognized by their striking spotted patterns, which add a unique visual appeal to a freshwater community aquarium.
Fun Fact: Silver Dollars are named for their round, disc-shaped bodies, resembling a silver coin. They are also known for their habit of occasionally coming to the water's surface to gulp air, a behavior believed to aid in digestion, similar to some other fish in the Serrasalmidae family, like piranhas.