Sailfin Red Hook Silver Dollar — Myleus setiger

Speed, color, and schooling power

The Sailfin Red Hook Silver Dollar is a high-energy South American characin that combines metallic flash with bold red accents. A bright silver body reflects light like polished chrome, while the vivid red anal and pelvic fins create sharp contrast — especially when the school turns in unison. The extended “sail-like” dorsal fin and signature red hook shape along the anal fin give this species a more aggressive, athletic profile than standard silver dollars.

Native to fast-moving Amazonian tributaries, Myleus setiger is built for motion. Unlike slower herbivorous relatives, Red Hooks are powerful swimmers that thrive in groups, constantly cruising midwater and reacting instantly at feeding time. In a large aquarium, a proper school transforms empty space into a living river scene.

Growing to 8–12 inches, these fish bring scale and movement to monster setups without the chaos of predatory aggression.

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Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons (6 ft length minimum recommended)

• Group Size: 5 or more strongly recommended

• Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel

• Flow: Moderate to strong current preferred

• Décor: Open swimming lanes with structure along edges

• Lighting: Moderate to bright (enhances silver and red tones)

• Cover: Secure lid required — strong jumpers

• Filtration: Strong biological filtration essential

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Tank Mates

Best with large, confident species:

• Arowana

• Datnoids

• Large catfish

• Bigger cichlids

• Rays (space dependent)

Avoid very small fish and delicate species.

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Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Oxygen: Moderate to high dissolved oxygen preferred

• Water Quality: Clean, stable conditions required

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Diet

Omnivorous with strong plant tendency:

• High-quality pellets

• Leafy greens (lettuce, spinach)

• Vegetables

• Shrimp and protein-based foods in moderation