Yellowfin Red Hook Silver Dollar- Myloplus arnoldi

Your Price: $49.99

Part Number: 1718

Availability: In Stock.

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Introduction:

The Yellowfin Red Hook Silver Dollar, Myloplus arnoldi, is a striking freshwater fish known for its shiny, round body and distinctive red and yellow coloration. Native to the rivers of South America, this large schooling fish is a great choice for hobbyists with spacious tanks and an interest in peaceful yet lively species. With its bold silver body and bright yellow fins, the Yellowfin Red Hook adds a vibrant presence to community aquariums.

1. Natural Habitat and Behavior

Myloplus arnoldi is native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins, where it inhabits slow-moving waters with dense vegetation. In the wild, they are schooling fish, staying in large groups for safety and feeding on plant matter and small invertebrates.
In the aquarium, they exhibit the same schooling behavior, requiring the company of their own kind to feel secure. They are generally peaceful, though their size and active swimming make them best suited for larger tanks.

2. Aquarium Setup

Tank Size: A minimum of 125 gallons is recommended due to their potential size, reaching up to 16 inches in the wild, although they typically remain smaller in captivity. Providing enough space is critical for their comfort and swimming needs.
Substrate: A sandy or smooth gravel substrate works well for this species. They are mid-water to surface swimmers, so the substrate is less crucial than providing open swimming areas.
Decor: Include sturdy plants (live or artificial) and large pieces of driftwood to mimic their natural habitat, but be cautious with live plants, as they may nibble on vegetation. Creating open areas for swimming while offering some cover with wood and rocks will balance their need for both security and space.
Water Conditions: Yellowfin Red Hooks prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. They thrive in temperatures between 75°F and 82°F. Strong filtration is necessary to maintain water quality, as they are large, active fish that produce significant waste.
Lighting: Moderate lighting is ideal, as these fish enjoy bright environments but can be sensitive to overly harsh light. Floating plants can help diffuse the light and create shaded areas for comfort.

3. Diet and Feeding

Yellowfin Red Hook Silver Dollars are primarily herbivores but will also eat small invertebrates and plant-based foods. In the aquarium, provide them with a varied diet of high-quality vegetable flakes or pellets, supplemented with fresh vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and peas.
They will also enjoy occasional protein-rich foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia. Offering a balance of plant and animal matter ensures they receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
Feed them once or twice daily, ensuring they have access to enough food without overfeeding, which can degrade water quality.

4. Compatibility with Other Fish

Yellowfin Red Hook Silver Dollars are peaceful and can be kept with other large, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include large tetras, peaceful cichlids like Severums, and other similarly sized species such as Silver Dollars or large catfish.
Due to their size and active swimming, they can intimidate smaller, more timid fish, so it’s best to avoid keeping them with small species that could be stressed by their activity.
Keeping them in schools of at least five is crucial for their well-being, as they are naturally social fish that rely on the safety of numbers to feel secure.

5. Common Challenges and Tips

One challenge with Myloplus arnoldi is their size, which means they require a large tank to accommodate their active swimming and schooling behavior. Ensure your tank is appropriately sized and well-maintained to support their needs.
These fish can be notorious for nibbling on live plants, so consider hardy plant species or opt for artificial plants if you're aiming for a heavily planted tank.
Maintaining good water quality with strong filtration is essential due to their size and the waste they produce. Regular water changes will help keep nitrate levels low and ensure a healthy environment.

Conclusion:

The Yellowfin Red Hook Silver Dollar is a visually stunning, peaceful, and hardy species that makes a great addition to large community tanks. Their schooling nature, combined with their active swimming behavior and bright yellow fins, brings both color and movement to the aquarium.
While they require a spacious tank and good water quality, their easygoing temperament and unique appearance make them a rewarding fish for hobbyists who can meet their needs.

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