Blckberry Silverdollar

Freshwater Blackberry Silver Dollar (Myloplus schomburgkii)

The Blackberry Silver Dollar (Myloplus schomburgkii), also known as the Black-Barred Silver Dollar or simply Schomburgkii Silver Dollar, is a striking and popular species of freshwater fish known for its unique coloration and peaceful nature. Originating from the rivers of South America, particularly the Amazon Basin, it belongs to the Characidae family, making it a close relative of piranhas and pacus, although much more peaceful.

The Blackberry Silver Dollar gets its name from its silvery, disc-shaped body, which resembles a coin or “silver dollar.” One of its most distinctive features is the presence of dark vertical black bars or stripes on its flanks, which, along with hints of red and orange on its fins, give it a beautiful contrast against its shiny, metallic body. Juveniles tend to show more vibrant bar patterns, which may fade slightly as they mature. Adults can reach a size of 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length, making them medium to large-sized fish for home aquariums.

Blackberry Silver Dollars are peaceful, schooling fish that prefer to be kept in groups of at least 5 or more to feel secure. When kept alone, they can become skittish or shy, but in groups, they exhibit more natural behavior and confidence. They are excellent community fish when housed with similarly peaceful species but may become fin nippers, especially if they are stressed or lack enough space. Despite their relative size and relation to piranhas, they are herbivorous and unlikely to harm tank mates.

In the wild, Blackberry Silver Dollars are primarily herbivorous, feeding on plant material, algae, and fruit. In captivity, they should be fed a diet that reflects their natural food sources:

• Vegetable-based flakes or pellets designed for herbivorous fish
• Fresh vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, zucchini, or peas
• Algae wafers or spirulina-based foods Occasional treats of live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp can be offered, but plant-based food should remain the primary component of their diet to keep them healthy and prevent them from damaging live plants in the aquarium.

• Tank Size: Due to their active swimming behavior and the need to be kept in groups, Blackberry Silver Dollars require a minimum of 75 gallons for a small school. Larger tanks (100 gallons or more) are recommended for larger groups or community setups.
• Water Conditions:
  • Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
  • pH: 5.5-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (4-12 dGH)
• Tank Setup: The aquarium should be well-decorated with plenty of open swimming space, as Blackberry Silver Dollars are active swimmers. Although they are herbivorous and may eat live plants, hardy species like Java fern or plastic plants can be used to add greenery. Driftwood and rocks can also be added to create hiding spots, which help reduce stress and provide a more natural environment.

Blackberry Silver Dollars are generally peaceful and do well in community tanks when paired with other large, peaceful species. Some suitable tank mates include:

• Angelfish
• Severums
• Large tetras like Buenos Aires Tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• PlecosAvoid housing them with small or delicate species, as the Silver Dollar’s active swimming and potential fin-nipping behavior may stress out smaller fish.

Breeding Blackberry Silver Dollars in captivity can be challenging, as it requires specific water conditions and a dedicated breeding setup. However, when successful, they are egg scatterers, laying eggs on plants or other surfaces. Raising the temperature and providing soft, slightly acidic water can encourage breeding behavior. Once eggs are laid, parents should be removed to prevent them from eating the eggs. The fry are relatively easy to raise once they hatch, and they can be fed infusoria or baby brine shrimp in their early stages.

With proper care, Blackberry Silver Dollars can live for 8-10 years in a well-maintained aquarium, making them a long-term addition to any fishkeeping setup.

• Plant Eating: As herbivores, these fish will often graze on plants in the aquarium. If you want to keep live plants, opt for fast-growing or tough species like Java fern, Anubias, or other plants that can withstand some nibbling.
• Schooling Behavior: Always keep Blackberry Silver Dollars in groups of at least 5 to reduce stress and allow them to exhibit their natural schooling behavior. Keeping them in smaller groups or alone can result in increased shyness or stress-related health issues.
• Fin Nipping: While generally peaceful, Blackberry Silver Dollars can be prone to fin nipping, especially if kept in too small a tank or without enough companions. Monitoring their behavior and ensuring they have adequate space can help reduce this.

The Blackberry Silver Dollar is an attractive, peaceful schooling fish that thrives in well-planted, large aquariums. They are perfect for experienced hobbyists who appreciate the beauty of active, herbivorous fish and are willing to provide the care and space needed for them to flourish.