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The Black Berry Silver Dollar is a rare and stunning variation of the classic Silver Dollar, known for its unique dark, berry-toned coloration. With a body shape resembling a traditional Silver Dollar but a strikingly deep, almost purplish-black hue, this fish makes a bold statement in larger freshwater aquariums. Peaceful, active, and schooling by nature, the Black Berry Silver Dollar is an excellent choice for community tanks with ample swimming space.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Unique Dark Coloration: Unlike traditional Silver Dollars, this variety boasts an eye-catching deep black-to-purple hue.
• Active and Social: Best kept in groups, these fish add movement and energy to any aquarium.
• Plant-Safe Alternative: Unlike many Silver Dollar species, some aquarists report this variety is less likely to destroy plants when given proper diet options.
• Hardy and Adaptable: A great option for experienced and beginner aquarists with larger tanks.

Natural Habitat:

While the exact origins of the Black Berry Silver Dollar are not well-documented, Silver Dollar species are naturally found in South American rivers, lakes, and flooded forest areas. They thrive in warm, slow-moving waters with plenty of driftwood, leaf litter, and submerged vegetation.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: May nibble on soft-leaved plants, so hardy species like Anubias, Java Fern, and Hornwort are recommended. Floating plants such as Water Lettuce or Amazon Frogbit can help provide cover.
• Hardscape: Use driftwood, smooth river rocks, and open swimming spaces to replicate their natural habitat.
• Botanicals: Adding Indian Almond Leaves and alder cones can release tannins that benefit their health and coloration.

Diet and Feeding:

Black Berry Silver Dollars are primarily herbivorous but require a balanced diet that includes:

• High-quality herbivore pellets or algae wafers
• Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and romaine lettuce
• Occasional protein sources such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia for variety

Providing plenty of plant-based food options will help reduce any tendency to nibble on live plants.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

This peaceful species thrives in schools and coexists well with a variety of tank mates. Suitable companions include:

• Other Silver Dollar species
• Peaceful South American cichlids (e.g., Severums, Geophagus, Angelfish)
• Larger tetras, such as Congo Tetras or Buenos Aires Tetras
• Bottom-dwelling fish like Plecos and Corydoras

Avoid housing them with small fish that could be seen as food or overly aggressive species.

Not Shrimp Safe:

Due to their size and diet, they may eat small shrimp. They are not recommended for shrimp tanks unless kept with larger shrimp species that have plenty of hiding spaces.

Breeding:

Breeding Black Berry Silver Dollars in home aquariums is challenging due to their schooling nature and the need for specific conditions. They typically require warm, soft, and slightly acidic water with plenty of hiding spots. Spawning occurs in groups, and eggs are scattered among plants or substrate. Parental care is minimal.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 74° - 82° F (23° - 28° C)
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• KH: 2 - 10 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (larger recommended for groups of 5+)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Primarily herbivorous. Requires a mix of plant-based foods with occasional protein.
• Social Behavior: Schooling fish; should be kept in groups of 5 or more.
• Origin: Tank-bred.
• Average Adult Size: 6 - 8 inches (15 - 20 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 2 - 4 inches (5 - 10 cm)

Add a striking and rare centerpiece to your aquarium with the Black Berry Silver Dollar—a uniquely colored, peaceful schooling fish perfect for larger community tanks.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee and free email support to ensure your success.