Description

The Red Hook Silver Dollar (Myloplus rubripinnis) is a striking and active freshwater fish known for its silver body with vibrant red accents, which resemble the “hook” shape in its tail. Native to the rivers and tributaries of the Amazon Basin in South America, Red Hook Silver Dollars are schooling fish and have a peaceful temperament, making them a favorite for larger community aquariums. Due to their size and active swimming behavior, they require a spacious tank and are best suited to intermediate and experienced aquarists.
Appearance
Red Hook Silver Dollars have a tall, disk-shaped body with a brilliant silver color that reflects light, giving them a mirror-like effect. Their most distinctive feature is the red markings on their fins, particularly on the anal fin, which has a sharp red edge resembling a “hook.” Mature males often display brighter reds and may have black-tipped anal fins. In captivity, they can grow up to 8 inches, although in the wild, they can sometimes reach 12 inches. This size, combined with their silver shimmer and red accents, makes them a beautiful focal point in any large tank.
Habitat and Tank Requirements
In their natural environment, Red Hook Silver Dollars are found in fast-flowing rivers with plenty of plant life, so they thrive in similar setups in captivity. A tank of at least 75 gallons is recommended for a small group, but a larger tank is ideal as they prefer to swim actively and need ample space.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Sandy or fine-gravel substrates are best, as they mimic the soft riverbeds found in their natural habitat.
Décor: These fish appreciate open swimming areas, so the tank should have a balance of open space with areas of driftwood, rocks, and some hardy plants. They may nibble on live plants, so consider using sturdy or artificial plants.
Water Flow: Moderate to strong water flow is recommended to simulate river conditions and keep them active.
Temperature: Red Hooks prefer warm water between 75°F and 82°F.
pH: They do best in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5.
Diet and Feeding
Red Hook Silver Dollars are omnivores with a tendency towards herbivory, meaning they need a varied diet with a mix of plant-based and protein-rich foods. In captivity, they thrive on high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with fresh vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and lettuce. They also enjoy the occasional protein treat such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or insects, but the majority of their diet should be plant-based to support their health.
Temperament and Compatibility
These fish are generally peaceful and do well in a community tank with other medium to large fish. However, they are schooling fish, so they should be kept in groups of at least 5 to reduce stress and bring out their best behavior. They can sometimes be shy if kept alone, and in groups, they display fascinating schooling behavior.
Compatible tank mates include other peaceful or semi-aggressive species such as larger tetras, plecos, bala sharks, and non-aggressive cichlids. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or nippy species, as Red Hooks can be stressed or have their fins damaged by more aggressive fish.
Lifespan and Care
With proper care, Red Hook Silver Dollars can live between 10 and 12 years in captivity. They are hardy fish but require good water quality to thrive. Regular water changes and maintaining stable water parameters are important, as fluctuations in water quality can lead to stress or illness.
Special Considerations
Plant Nibbling: Red Hooks may nibble on plants, so choose hardy plants or artificial options if you wish to keep live plants in the tank. Fast-growing plants like Java fern or Anubias can sometimes tolerate their nibbling.
Schooling Needs: Keeping Red Hooks in groups is crucial to reduce stress and prevent shy or nervous behavior.
Tank Size: Due to their size and active nature, Red Hooks need a spacious tank. A small tank can lead to health issues or aggression as they outgrow the space.
Final Thoughts
Red Hook Silver Dollars are a unique, eye-catching addition to large aquariums, known for their beauty and peaceful demeanor. They’re relatively easy to care for if provided with a spacious tank, stable water conditions, and a balanced diet. For aquarists who can meet their needs, Red Hook Silver Dollars offer a dynamic and visually captivating schooling species that brings a touch of the Amazon’s beauty to any aquarium setup.