Silver Dollar

Metynnis argenteus

Silver Dollar

Metynnis argenteus

At the Aquarium

Amazon Basin

Appearance

Silver dollars are a tall, flat, ray finned fish. Usually a uniform silver color, but can have small patches of red coloration on their fins or throat. They tend to grow up to 6” in length, with males being smaller than females.

Habitat

Inland wetlands

Diet

Primarily aquatic plants, but will opportunistically eat small invertebrates.

Life History

During courting and mating season, male silver dollars will develop two large, black spots at the base of their pectoral fins. Those with reds may show a vibrance in color as well.

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Ecosystem & Cultural Importance

Common in Aquarium trade.
Brazil and Guyana
This animal is not found on the Oregon Coast. It can be found at the Oregon Coast Aquarium as part of our temporary exhibit Amazon Basin: Adventure for the Senses.
They are one of several fish that will often be referred to as a silver dollar that you may see in Aquariums–Metynnis argenteus and Metynnis hypsauchen are both often referred to as a silver dollar.

Citations & Other Resources