Red Hook Silver Dollar (Myloplus rubripinnis)

The Red Hook Silver Dollar (Myloplus rubripinnis) is one of the most sought-after Silver Dollar species, recognized by its distinctive red anal fin that forms a hook-like shape. These large, peaceful schooling fish add movement, personality, and vibrant coloration to large freshwater aquariums.

Red Hook Silver Dollars are ideal for hobbyists seeking a unique alternative to standard Silver Dollars while maintaining the same peaceful temperament.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Myloplus rubripinnis
• Common Name: Red Hook Silver Dollar
• Adult Size: 8–10 inches
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum
• Temperature: 75–82°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Diet: Herbivore/Omnivore
• Schooling Fish: Yes

Why Choose Red Hook Silver Dollars?

✔ Unique red hook-shaped fin
✔ Large, impressive display fish
✔ Peaceful schooling behavior
✔ Great for monster fish aquariums
✔ Excellent companion for Severums and Geophagus

Aquarium Setup

Red Hook Silver Dollars grow large and are active, fast-moving schooling fish that need plenty of open swimming space and a securely covered tank, as they can be skittish and may jump when startled. A spacious aquarium with strong filtration keeps these big-bodied fish healthy.

Recommended setup:

• 125+ gallon aquarium (larger for groups)
• Open swimming areas with subdued lighting
• Driftwood, smooth rocks, and hardy or artificial plants (they nibble soft live plants)
• Strong filtration and regular water changes
• Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water

Diet & Feeding

Red Hook Silver Dollars are primarily herbivorous omnivores with a strong appetite for plant matter. A varied, vegetable-rich diet keeps their red fin coloration vibrant and their digestion healthy.

• High-quality vegetable flakes and pellets
• Blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and peas
• Spirulina and algae-based foods
• Occasional protein treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp

Tank Mates

Peaceful despite their size, Red Hook Silver Dollars do best with other large, even-tempered community fish. Good companions include:

• Other Silver Dollars
• Bala Sharks
• Tinfoil Barbs
• Severums and other peaceful South American cichlids
• Large Plecos
• Larger Rainbowfish

Avoid:

• Small tetras and nano fish (may be intimidated)
• Aggressive or fin-nipping species
• Delicate live-planted aquascapes (they will graze on soft plants)

Schooling Behavior

Red Hook Silver Dollars are happiest in groups of five or more. Kept in a proper school they are calmer, bolder, and display their natural shimmering, synchronized swimming. Single or small numbers of fish tend to be shy and stressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do Red Hook Silver Dollars get?
They are one of the larger Silver Dollars, reaching about 8 to 10 inches as adults, so they need a spacious tank of at least 125 gallons.

How many Red Hook Silver Dollars should I keep together?
Keep them in a school of at least five. Larger groups reduce stress and bring out their best, most active behavior.

Are Red Hook Silver Dollars peaceful?
Yes. They are gentle, peaceful schooling fish that get along well with other large, non-aggressive community species.

Will Red Hook Silver Dollars eat my plants?
Likely yes. They are avid plant grazers, so hardy, tough-leaved plants or artificial plants are recommended.

What do Red Hook Silver Dollars eat?
A vegetable-forward omnivore diet: veggie flakes/pellets, blanched greens, spirulina, and occasional protein treats.

Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo

Healthy Red Hook Silver Dollars available for large freshwater aquariums and monster fish setups.

---

Explore More Aquarium Products:

• Shop Freshwater Fish for Sale
• Browse Fish Food for All Aquarium Fish
• Shop Aquarium Filters & Filtration Systems
• Buy Live Aquarium Plants
• Read Aquarium Care Guides & Tips