Fine Spot Splash Tetra

The Fine Spot Splash Tetra, scientifically known as Copella sp. 'Barcelos', is a rare and elegant characin native to clearwater streams and flooded forests near Barcelos in the middle Rio Negro region of Brazil. This species is highly valued by aquarists for its unique reproductive strategy, subtle beauty, and peaceful disposition.

Adult Fine Spot Splash Tetras typically reach about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 cm) in length. They have a slender, elongated body with a translucent silver to golden base color. Males display delicate rows of fine, dark spots along the flanks and possess more elongated dorsal and anal fins, sometimes with faint iridescent or yellow highlights. Females are generally smaller, rounder, and less vividly marked.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a group. Fine Spot Splash Tetras are loosely social fish and are best kept in small groups, but they do not form tight schools. Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, and pairs will often separate from the rest of the group to spawn. The aquarium should be well planted, with a soft sand or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, floating plants, and shaded areas to replicate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.

Water parameters should include a temperature range of 76 to 82°F (24 to 28°C), a pH between 5.0 and 7.0, and soft, acidic water typical of the Rio Negro basin. Pristine water quality and gentle filtration are essential, as this species is sensitive to poor conditions.

Feeding Copella sp. 'Barcelos' is straightforward, as they are micro-predators and will accept small live or frozen foods such as daphnia, cyclops, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. Some individuals will accept high-quality micro pellets or flakes, but a diet rich in live foods is best for coloration and breeding.

Fine Spot Splash Tetras are peaceful and do well with other small, gentle South American fish such as pencilfish, hatchetfish, and small Corydoras. Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive tankmates, and provide plenty of cover for more natural behavior.

Breeding the Fine Spot Splash Tetra is possible and fascinating—this group is known as “splash tetras” for their habit of laying eggs on overhanging leaves above the water’s surface. Males guard and splash water on the eggs to keep them moist until hatching. To breed them, provide overhanging leaves or plastic strips above the surface and maintain high humidity.

Copella sp. 'Barcelos' (Fine Spot Splash Tetra) is a unique, peaceful species that brings elegance and fascinating breeding behavior to blackwater and Rio Negro biotope aquariums.