Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver dollar (Metynnis argenteus) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Silver dollar is a silver dollar, a deep-bodied characin (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a deep, round, strongly compressed, bright-silvery body, like a coin. Unlike piranhas it is mainly a plant-eater and grazes water plants and algae in schools. The fish is harmless to humans and is popular in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver dollar?
The Silver dollar has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Silver dollar live?
The Silver dollar lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Brazil
How big does the Silver dollar get?
The Silver dollar grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Silver dollar dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver dollar is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Silver dollar edible?
Yes, the Silver dollar is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Metynnis
More from the family Serrasalmidae
Want the complete picture on the Silver dollar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver dollar is one of 12,519 species in the app.