Smaller cousins to the huge Pacus of the Amazon, Silver Dollars are herbivorous plant eaters that make great additions to the community aquarium. In some habitats the Silver Dollar may have a dark spot on its side. In fact, there are several species from the genus Metynnis, as well as the genus Mylossoma that are sold as Silver Dollars.
Some species are more elongated, some spotted and some are striped.
Generally the Metynnis species sport a large adipose fin while the Mylossoma display a small adipose fin. Metynnis argenteus, shown in the picture here, is the most commonly seen Silver Dollar. Any spots or dark markings on the fish's body are likely to fade with age. The anal fin of a healthy Silver Dollar is edged in an orange or red color. Tank Setup These Characins should be kept in schools of five or more.