How to Identify Silver Dollar

To identify Silver Dollar (Myloplus levis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery body, often with a faint iridescent sheen. Juveniles may have dark spots or bars that fade with age. Mature males develop a prominent red or orange anal fin, which can extend into the caudal peduncle. Some individuals may exhibit a yellowish tint on the ventral side.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Laterally compressed, disc-shaped body, Prominent red/orange anal fin in mature males, Small, terminal mouth with bicuspid teeth adapted for herbivory, Adipose fin present

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, relatively short-based, with 16-19 rays. Originates anterior to the anal fin origin.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, typically clear to slightly dusky.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small and clear.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin is long-based, with 28-33 rays, and is notably red or orange in mature males, often with a black margin. Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for the classic 'silver dollar' shape: a very deep, laterally compressed body, almost circular in profile.

2. 2

   Coloration

   The overall silvery body is a key indicator. Pay close attention to the anal fin; a vibrant red or orange coloration, especially in larger specimens, is characteristic of Myloplus levis.

3. 3

   Mouth and Teeth

   Observe the small, terminal mouth and the bicuspid teeth, which are indicative of its herbivorous diet. This distinguishes it from more predatory serrasalmids.

4. 4

   Fin Ray Counts

   For precise identification, fin ray counts can be used: Dorsal fin with 16-19 rays, anal fin with 28-33 rays.

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