Spotted Silver Dollar

Spotted Silver DollarThe Spotted Silver Dollar (Metynnis lippincottianus) is a large, peaceful freshwater fish recognised for its round, silver body patterned with dark spots. Active and social by nature, Silver Dollars are best kept in groups where they display confident schooling behaviour and constant movement. Their calm temperament makes them suitable for large community aquariums with similarly sized tank mates. Due to their size and appetite, Spotted Silver Dollars

The Spotted Silver Dollar (Metynnis lippincottianus) is a large, peaceful freshwater fish recognised for its round, silver body patterned with dark spots. Active and social by nature, Silver Dollars are best kept in groups where they display confident schooling behaviour and constant movement.

Their calm temperament makes them suitable for large community aquariums with similarly sized tank mates. Due to their size and appetite, Spotted Silver Dollars require spacious tanks and robust filtration to thrive.

Physical Characteristics

• Adult Size: Approximately 15–18 cm (6–7 inches)

• Coloration: Bright silver body with dark spotted markings

• Body Shape: Disc-shaped, laterally compressed

• Sexual Dimorphism:

  • Females are typically rounder when mature

  • Males may develop slight fin extensions

Behaviour & Temperament

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Tank Level: Mid to upper water levels

• Schooling Behaviour: Should be kept in groups of 5 or more

• Activity Level: Active swimmer

Suitable Tank Mates

• Other Silver Dollars

• Large peaceful tetras

• Peaceful cichlids

• Catfish and plecos

Avoid:

• Small fish (may be eaten)

• Aggressive or territorial species

• Delicate plants

Breeding Information

• Spawning Type: Egg scatterer

• Breeding Setup:

  • Soft to neutral water

  • Open swimming space

• Parental Care: None

• Notes: Breeding is uncommon in home aquariums

Special Considerations

• Known plant eaters — live plants may be damaged

• Requires strong filtration due to size and feeding habits

• Easily startled without adequate schooling numbers

• Needs ample swimming space

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 300 litres

• Water Temperature: 24–28°C

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Decor: Live plants, driftwood, shaded areas

• Filtration: Moderate, well-maintained

• Lighting: Moderate; plants help diffuse brightness

Diet & Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivore

• Recommended Foods:

  • High-quality flakes or micro pellets

  • Frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp

  • Occasional vegetables (spinach, zucchini)

• Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily in small portions

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