Silver Dollar

Descrizione

Metynnis argenteus, commonly known as the Silver Dollar, is a freshwater fish belonging to the family Serrasalmidae. It is characterized by its distinctive, highly compressed, disc-shaped body and shimmering, silvery coloration. These fish are known for their schooling behavior and primarily herbivorous diet, making them a popular choice for larger community aquariums. They are active swimmers and can grow to a considerable size, requiring ample space.

Caratteristiche fisiche

Forma del corpo

compressed

Colorazione

Predominantly silvery, often with a metallic sheen. Some individuals may exhibit a faint reddish tint on the fins, particularly the anal fin, or a subtle dark spot behind the operculum, though this is less pronounced than in some other Metynnis species.

Tipo di squame

cycloid

Posizione della bocca

superior

Caratteristiche distintive

Highly compressed, disc-shaped body, Large, reflective scales, Small, upturned mouth, Adipose fin present

Pinna dorsale

Single, relatively short dorsal fin positioned mid-body.

Pinna caudale

Forked caudal fin.

Pinna pettorale

Small, clear pectoral fins.

Pinne distintive

Anal fin is relatively long and extends along the ventral side of the body. Pelvic fins are small and located abdominally. An adipose fin is present between the dorsal and caudal fins.

Consigli per l'identificazione

Habitat

Tipo di acqua

freshwater

Profondità

Typically found in shallow to moderately deep waters, often near submerged vegetation or fallen trees.

Ambiente

Native to slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and flooded forests. They prefer areas with dense vegetation, providing both cover and a food source. Water can range from clear to blackwater conditions.

Areale geografico

Native to South America, primarily found in the Amazon River basin, including tributaries in Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. Also found in the Guianas.

Informazioni sull'acquario

• Livello di cura: intermediate
• Temperamento: peaceful
• Dieta: herbivore
• Dimensione minima della vasca: 75 gallons (280 liters) for a small group
• Temperatura: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• Livello di pH: 6.0-7.5
• Durezza: 5-15 dGH
• Compatibilità: Generally peaceful and can be kept with other similarly sized, non-aggressive fish. Avoid keeping with very small fish that might be mistaken for food, or with aggressive species that could harass them. Compatible tankmates include larger tetras, cichlids (e.g., angelfish, discus), and some catfish species.
• Requisiti speciali: Requires a well-filtered aquarium with good water circulation. Provide plenty of open swimming space, as well as some tall, sturdy plants (preferably artificial, as they will eat live plants) and driftwood for cover. They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 individuals to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior. A secure lid is essential as they can jump.

Informazioni in natura

• Stato di conservazione: least concern
• Stagionalità: Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season in their natural habitat, when water levels rise and food is abundant. No specific seasonality for commercial fishing due to low culinary demand.
• Prezzo di mercato: Low to medium (primarily for the aquarium trade)
• Importanza commerciale: low
• Sapore: Not commonly consumed; taste is generally described as mild and somewhat bony.
• Consistenza: Flaky, but with numerous small bones.
• Metodi di cottura: Not typically prepared for consumption.
• Valore nutrizionale: Not a significant food fish; nutritional value is not widely documented for human consumption.

Fatti chiave

Specie simili

Classificazione scientifica

Regno

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Classe

Actinopterygii

Ordine

Characiformes

Famiglia

Serrasalmidae

Genere

Metynnis

Specie

Metynnis argenteus

Esplora Silver Dollar