Red Hook Silver Dollar

The red hook silver dollar is a mainly herbivorous Serrasalmidae species related to piranhas and pacus. With its round, flat silvery body it resembles the silver dollar, but it grows much larger: in the aquarium it can reach 20–25 cm. In males, the front part of the anal fin is red, black-edged and hook-shaped; the species takes its name from this feature. The juveniles sold small in stores grow quickly; a large aquarium should be planned from the start.

• At least 500 liters for a group of 5–6; a length of 150 cm or more.
• 24–28°C, pH 6–7.5, soft to moderately hard water.
• Live plants get eaten; the decor should be built with roots, rocks and artificial plants.
• Strong filtration, a 30% water change weekly and a tight lid.

Mainly herbivorous. Spirulina flakes and granules, blanched spinach, lettuce, zucchini, peas and fruit slices are suitable; frozen protein foods can be added several times a week.

A peaceful and shy schooling fish; when kept alone it hides constantly. It may eat shrimp that fit in its mouth and very small fish fry.

Good companions: large, peaceful species: silver dollars, large plecos, large South American cichlids such as severums and geophagus, kissing gouramis.

Avoid: planted tanks, nano fish, dwarf shrimp, large aggressive cichlids.