Sliver Dollar Tetra

Silver Dollar Tetra (Metynnis hypsauchen)

The Silver Dollar Tetra is a classic freshwater favourite, named for its round, coin-like shape and shiny, metallic body. These peaceful schooling fish bring movement and sparkle to aquariums, making them a fantastic choice for community setups. When kept in groups, their natural shoaling behaviour creates a truly eye-catching display.

Native to the rivers of South America, Silver Dollar Tetras are hardy, adaptable, and great for aquarists of all experience levels. While their silvery sheen is their trademark look, some varieties develop subtle red or orange tints on their fins as they mature.

Why We Love Them

• Striking Appearance – Bright silver bodies that shimmer beautifully under aquarium lights.

• Schooling Behaviour – Best kept in groups of 5 or more, making for a stunning, active display.

• Peaceful Nature – Excellent choice for larger community aquariums.

• Hardy & Adaptable – Great for beginners and experienced fishkeepers alike.

Tank Setup

Silver Dollar Tetras thrive in aquariums that mimic their natural river habitat. They prefer plenty of open swimming space along with areas of cover created by driftwood and plants. Because they are plant eaters, it’s best to use hardy species (like Java Fern and Anubias) or artificial plants in their tank. A darker substrate helps their colours shine, and a tight-fitting lid is recommended, as they can be enthusiastic jumpers.

Feeding

These fish are primarily herbivores and enjoy a diet rich in plant matter. Offer them high-quality flake or pellet foods designed for herbivores, along with blanched vegetables (like spinach, lettuce, or zucchini). They’ll also accept some frozen foods for variety, but greens should always make up the bulk of their diet.

Tank Mates

Silver Dollar Tetras are peaceful but grow fairly large for tetras, so they should be kept with other medium-to-large, non-aggressive fish. Great companions include peaceful cichlids, larger tetras, rainbowfish, and catfish species. Avoid housing them with small fish that could be mistaken for food.

Care Information

• Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.5

• KH: 4–18 dKH

• Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum (they are active swimmers and need space)

• Adult Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)

• Purchase Size: Around 5–7 cm (2–3 inches)

• Origin: Farm-bred, with wild populations from South America

With their peaceful temperament, shimmering silver scales, and active schooling behaviour, Silver Dollar Tetras make a fantastic centrepiece for larger community aquariums.