Profile Photo

Maximum size : 7 cm

Splash Tetra - Copella arnoldi : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Table of contents

Introduction

The Splash Tetra (Copella arnoldi) is a serene, captivating species that proves to be both easy to keep and delightfully engrossing to breed. Unfortunately, these Tetras are relatively rare and infrequently offered for sale, making them a prized addition to any aquarium. As shoaling fish, it is advisable to maintain these Tetras in sizable groups of six to ten individuals to encourage natural schooling behaviour. However, due to their small adult size, it is essential to exercise caution when selecting compatible tankmates, as these Tetras are easily intimidated by larger, more aggressive species. Ideally, tankmates should comprise smaller Dwarf Cichlids, Pencilfish, Corydoras Catfish, Killifish, and other small blackwater Tetras. The Splash Tetra boasts a slender olive-brown body with a whitish belly and a relatively large, upturned mouth featuring sharply pointed teeth. They display a dark spot on their dorsal fin bordered by a whitish-pink hue, accompanied by a dark band from the snout to the eye, extending through to the operculum. Their caudal fin features a strikingly profound fork, with the upper lobe more extensive than the bottom lobe, exhibiting a scarlet flash. The Tetras' adipose fin is notably absent, with their large pelvic fins used during spawning. When maintained under optimal water conditions, the upper half of their iris develops an iridescent orange hue, further enhancing their captivating appearance.

Splash Tetra Photos

Sexual Dimorphism

Discerning between male and female Splash Tetras is a relatively simple task. Typically, the males exhibit larger body proportions and longer, more vibrantly hued fins accented with red and black outlines. Moreover, during the spawning period, males may manifest a conspicuous dark band that extends posteriorly along the body from behind the opercle.

Quick Facts

Scientific NameCopella arnoldi
Year Described1912
Other NamesSplashing Tetra, Spraying Tetra, Jumping Tetra
ClassificationActinopterygii
OrderCharaciformes
FamilyLebiasinidae
GenusCopella
OriginsGuyana Suriname Brazil
Max Size7 cm
TemperamentPeaceful
Aquarium LevelMiddle - Top
DifficultyBeginner
ShoalingYes
Best kept asGroups 6+
DietOmnivore
ReproductionEgg-Scatterer
Lifespan3 - 5 years

Water Parameters

Water TypeFreshwater
PH4.0 - 7.5
GH3 - 12
KH
TDS18 - 143
Temperature
68 - 82
20 - 27.8

Natural Habitat

The Splash Tetra is a captivating species, endemic to the lush tropical River Basins of the Amazon and Orinoco in Brazil, and the coastal drainages of Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, encompassing the Demerara Essequibo, Suriname, and Nickerie regions of South America. Inhabiting both clear and blackwater, these Tetras dwell in shallow creeks, streams, swamps, and wetlands and can be found in flooded forests during times of high water. The most favourable habitats for these Tetras boast extensive overhanging riparian vegetation, lending an immersive and breathtakingly verdant appearance to their environment. In addition, the water is often steeped in tannins, staining it with the natural decomposed matter released by the lush vegetation, further enhancing the Tetras' captivating habitat.
 
 Orinoco - Venezuela
Venezuela Flag
 

Breeding

Breeding Splash Tetras is a relatively uncomplicated process, and their distinctive and truly remarkable reproductive behaviour presents an enthralling spectacle that every aquarist should endeavour to witness. To begin, it is recommended to house a pair or trio of these Tetras in a small tank equipped with a sponge filter and copious amounts of Java Moss or floating plants. The water level should be lowered to approximately 10cm from the top, with the sponge filter's water flow directed towards the tank's sides and surface. This arrangement facilitates a moist microclimate beneath the tank lid and cover. During spawning, the Tetras will leap onto the aquarium glass or lid, utilizing their enlarged pelvic fins to cling onto their chosen site while coordinating their jumps. Each leap can result in around a dozen eggs being laid, with the potential for over 100 eggs in total if multiple females are present. Once spawning is completed, the female(s) must be removed, leaving the male to guard the eggs vigilantly. The male periodically flicks water onto the eggs using his tail, earning these Tetras their distinctive nicknames of "splash" or "spraying tetra." The male will remember their location and attend to each in turn if multiple nests are present. Fertile eggs will typically hatch after two to three days, with the fry dropping into the water. The male should be removed from the tank at this point, and the fry should be fed infusoria and paramecium initially. The Java Moss and floating plants will also provide nourishment for the fry. After approximately ten days, the fry will have grown enough to consume vinegar eels or newly hatched brine shrimp. Regular partial water changes will help to maintain optimal water quality.

Diet & feeding

While Splash Tetras will readily accept high-quality dried foods, such as flakes, freeze-dried tubifex, and granules, it is crucial to supplement their diet with small live and frozen offerings, such as Moina, baby brine shrimp, and grindal worm, to maintain their optimal health and well-being. Consistently offering this diversified menu ensures that these Tetras remain in top condition within the aquarium environment.

Other Tetras you maybe interested in