Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted silver dollar (Metynnis lippincottianus) is a freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Spotted silver dollar is a silver dollar, a deep-bodied characin (Serrasalmidae) from fresh water of the Amazon and Guiana region in South America. The species grows to about 16 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 Spotted silver dollar?
The Spotted silver dollar has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Spotted silver dollar live?
The Spotted silver dollar lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Brazil, French Guiana
How big does the Spotted silver dollar get?
The Spotted silver dollar grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Spotted silver dollar dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted 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 Spotted silver dollar edible?
Yes, the Spotted 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 Spotted silver dollar?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted silver dollar is one of 12,519 species in the app.