The Silver dollar tetra (Poptella brevispina) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The silver dollar tetra is a deep, disc-shaped characin of the family Characidae (true tetras) reaching about 9 cm. The strongly compressed, mirror-silver body resembles a small silver dollar and bears an adipose fin (as in many characins) and a dark shoulder spot. The species comes from the fresh water of northern and central South America and lives in schools in slow, densely vegetated water of rivers and creeks. As an omnivore it eats insects, plant matter, zooplankton and detritus, taken in the water column and at the surface. In the rainy season it spawns among the water plants. Through its great numbers it is an important prey fish for larger species and occasionally appears in the aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver dollar tetra?
The Silver dollar tetra has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Silver dollar tetra live?
The Silver dollar tetra lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Silver dollar tetra get?
The Silver dollar tetra grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Silver dollar tetra dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver dollar tetra is harmless to humans.
Is the Silver dollar tetra edible?
The Silver dollar tetra is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Poptella
More from the family Characidae
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