Splashing tetra

Introduction

The Splashing tetra (Copella arnoldi) is a captivating freshwater fish renowned for its unique breeding behavior and peaceful nature. Native to South America, this slender, olive-brown fish with a whitish belly and distinctive markings has become a favorite among aquarists. Its fascinating reproductive habits and relatively straightforward care requirements make it an appealing choice for both novice and experienced fishkeepers.

What makes the Splashing tetra unique?

The Splashing tetra is famous for its remarkable breeding behavior, where it lays eggs on overhanging leaves and keeps them moist by splashing water, a trait uncommon among aquarium fish.

Is the Splashing tetra suitable for beginners?

Yes, with proper care and attention to their specific needs, Splashing tetras can thrive in home aquariums, making them suitable for beginners.

Care and Environment

Caring for Splashing tetras involves creating an environment that mirrors their natural habitat. A minimum tank size of 35 liters is recommended for a small group, but a larger tank of at least 90 liters is ideal for a more substantial shoal. These fish prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures between 23°C and 27°C, a pH range of 4.0 to 7.0, and water hardness between 18 and 143 ppm.

Filtration should be efficient yet gentle to maintain water quality without creating strong currents. Lighting can be moderate, with the inclusion of floating plants to diffuse light and provide shaded areas. A well-planted tank with both submerged and floating vegetation, along with driftwood and leaf litter, will offer hiding spots and mimic their natural environment. A dark substrate can enhance their coloration and provide a more natural setting.

Splashing tetras are omnivorous and will accept high-quality flake or pellet foods. To ensure optimal health, their diet should be supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Offering a varied diet will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall well-being.

One specific challenge with Splashing tetras is their propensity to jump, especially during breeding. Therefore, a tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent escapes. Additionally, they can be sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, so regular monitoring and gradual adjustments are crucial.

How many Splashing tetras should be kept together?

Splashing tetras are shoaling fish and thrive in groups of at least six, with larger groups being even more beneficial for their social behavior and stress reduction.

What type of tank setup is best for Splashing tetras?

A well-planted tank with ample hiding spots, gentle filtration, and a secure lid to prevent jumping is ideal for Splashing tetras.

Are Splashing tetras prone to any specific health issues?

While generally hardy, Splashing tetras can be susceptible to common freshwater diseases if water quality is not maintained. Regular water changes and monitoring are essential to keep them healthy.

Origin and Habitat

Splashing tetras are native to the Amazon Basin and coastal drainages of Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. They inhabit slow-moving streams, creeks, and flooded forests rich in overhanging vegetation. These environments often feature tannin-stained, soft, and acidic waters with abundant leaf litter and submerged roots. The dense vegetation provides shelter and breeding sites, while the subdued lighting conditions mimic their natural habitat.

What type of water bodies do Splashing tetras inhabit?

They are typically found in slow-moving streams, creeks, and flooded forests with dense vegetation.

How does their natural habitat influence their care in aquariums?

Replicating their natural habitat with soft, acidic water, ample vegetation, and subdued lighting helps reduce stress and promotes natural behaviors.

Do Splashing tetras experience seasonal variations in their habitat?

Yes, they inhabit areas that can become flooded during the rainy season, leading to changes in water parameters and available resources.

Temperament and Compatibility

Splashing tetras are peaceful and social fish that thrive in shoals. They are best kept in groups of at least six to encourage natural behaviors and reduce stress. Suitable tank mates include other small, peaceful species such as tetras, rasboras, dwarf cichlids, killifish, pencilfish, and small catfish like Corydoras. It's important to avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or prey upon them.

To create a harmonious tank community, ensure that all species have similar water parameter requirements and temperaments. Providing ample hiding spots and visual barriers with plants and decorations can help reduce potential conflicts and stress among tank inhabitants.

Are Splashing tetras aggressive?

No, they are peaceful fish and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species.

Can Splashing tetras be kept with other tetras?

Yes, they can coexist with other small, peaceful tetras that share similar environmental needs.

What should be avoided when selecting tank mates for Splashing tetras?

Avoid larger, aggressive, or fin-nipping species that may harass or prey upon Splashing tetras.

Interesting Facts

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Splashing tetra is its unique breeding behavior. During spawning, the male and female leap out of the water to deposit eggs on overhanging leaves or other surfaces above the waterline. The male then splashes water onto the eggs to keep them moist until they hatch, a behavior that gives the species its common name.

Additionally, Splashing tetras are known for their jumping ability, which is not only a part of their breeding ritual but also a natural behavior in response to threats. This underscores the importance of a secure aquarium lid to prevent escapes.

Why are they called Splashing tetras?

They are named for their unique breeding behavior, where males splash water onto eggs laid on surfaces above the water to keep them moist.

Do Splashing tetras require special breeding conditions?

Yes, providing overhanging surfaces and maintaining appropriate water conditions can encourage their natural breeding behaviors.

Are Splashing tetras known to jump out of tanks?

Yes, they are adept jumpers, especially during breeding, so a tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent escapes.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• Seriously Fish
• Coburg Aquarium
• FishKeepingAnswers.com