Myleus Schomburgkii 2.5″-3″

Myleus schomburgkii, commonly known as the black-barred silver dollar or Schomburgkii silver dollar, is a freshwater fish native to the rivers of South America. It’s known for its distinctive body shape and coloration.

• Habitat: Native to the Amazon River basin and other rivers in South America, such as the Orinoco. They are typically found in fast-flowing waters with plenty of vegetation.
• Appearance: These fish have a round, laterally compressed silver body, giving them a “silver dollar” look. A distinct black vertical bar runs down the middle of their body, which is the hallmark of this species. Depending on the variety, some may also have red-tipped fins.
• Size: Myleus schomburgkii can grow up to about 40 cm (16 inches) in the wild, though in captivity, they typically reach around 12-14 inches.
• Diet: They are primarily herbivores, feeding on plant matter, fruits, and seeds in the wild. In captivity, they should be given a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as vegetables, algae wafers, and specialized herbivore pellets.
• Behavior: These are peaceful fish that do best in groups (schooling fish). While generally calm, their large size means they should be kept in a spacious tank with ample swimming room. They may nip at smaller fish, so tankmates should be of similar size.
• Aquarium Care: Myleus schomburgkii requires a large tank (at least 100 gallons) with strong filtration and a moderate to strong water flow to replicate their natural habitat. They appreciate well-planted tanks but can sometimes damage delicate plants due to their herbivorous nature.

This species is a beautiful and peaceful addition to larger freshwater tanks, especially for aquarists who enjoy South American species.