Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Live Plant Safe: No
General Description: Red Hook Silver Dollars have an extensive distribution throughout major river systems in northern South America. A relatively easy fish to care for if the proper environment and diet is provided, Red hook silver dollars have an oval body shape that are silver in color, and a pronounced “hooked” anal fin that is red in color and edged in black. This hooked anal fin (whether red or not depending on age and environment) easily distinguishes this species from all related Metynnis species. Red hook silver dollars are social, doing best in groups of five or more individuals. An active fish, Red hook silver dollars exploit the middle and top regions of the aquarium making them a good dither fish for shyer species. Much larger than its more common counterpart, the Silver Dollar (Metynnis argenteus), an adult Red hook silver dollar can grow to approximately 8 to 10″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild the Red hook silver dollars are herbivorous, consuming large quantities of live plants which is why they are unsuitable for live planted aquariums. Offer high quality vegetable and Spirulina based foods, algae wafers, and even some hardy, live plants to forage on. Frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and blood worms, can be provided as an occasional treat. Variety is the spice of life in order to maintain color, immune function and longevity of your fish. Foods that contain excessive levels of protein should be avoided.
Care Requirements: A minimum 75 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of juvenile or small Red hook silver dollars. The length of the aquarium is important to consider given the activity level of this species. More adult specimens will require a tank upwards of 125+ gallons. This fish should not be put into a biologically immature aquarium. Biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters reasonable (Nitrates < 30 ppm). Red hook silver dollars require generous decor and cover in order to feel secure, or they are otherwise quite skittish. Shy behavior can also be avoided when appropriate numbers of individuals are present. Red hook silver dollars are compatible with a variety of active medium-sized fishes such as barbs, tetras, and rainbowfish for example. Small fish species could be predated on as Red hook silver dollars mature. Red hook silver dollars do not make good live planted aquarium inhabitants because they will consume most live plants. Recommended water conditions, 74-82° F, KH 0-10, pH 6.0-7.0.
Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2” to 2”, Medium: 2” to 3”, Large” 3” to 4”, XLarge: 5+”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.