Splash Tetra (Copella arnoldi) Care Guide

A fascinating fish with one of the most unique breeding strategies in the hobby. Pairs leap out of the water to deposit eggs on overhanging leaves above the waterline, then the male splashes water ont…

Overview

Copella arnoldi is a species in the family Lebiasinidae. A fascinating fish with one of the most unique breeding strategies in the hobby. Pairs leap out of the water to deposit eggs on overhanging leaves above the waterline, then the male splashes water onto the eggs with his tail to keep them moist.

Taxonomy

Family: Lebiasinidae
Genus: Copella
Scientific name: Copella arnoldi
Other names: Jumping Characin, Spraying Characin
Origin: South America, Amazon Basin, Guyana

Habitat

Native to the lower Amazon basin and coastal Guianas. Inhabits slow, shaded forest streams. Noted for an unusual spawning behaviour in which the pair leap together onto an overhanging leaf to deposit eggs above the water, the male then splashing them to keep them moist.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 23-29 °C
pH: 5.5-7.5
GH: 2-15 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 4-5.5 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Recommended group size: ≥ 6
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Swimming level: top
Compatible tank mates: Neon Tetra, Corydoras, Harlequin Rasbora, Cherry Shrimp
Avoid with: Large Cichlids, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-depositor
Breeding difficulty: advanced