Red-spotted Copeina

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to the central and upper Amazon River basin (Brazil, Peru, Colombia). Populates forest rivers and oxbow lakes (cochas) characterized by calm waters, dense aquatic vegetation and an abundance of floating plants.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Red-spotted Copeina (Copeina guttata). Belongs to the Lebiasinidae family. It is a fish with an elongated and cylindrical body, with a pointed snout and an upward-facing mouth, a clear indication of its surface-hunting habits.

Social Behavior: Peaceful schooling fish, although males establish hierarchies and defend temporary territories during breeding. Spends most of its time hovering just below the surface, waiting for prey.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Light blue-gray or brownish body with large reflective scales. The main feature is the red spots (guttata means spotted) on each flank scale in males, which also develop more elongated fins. Females are faded and rounder.

Aquarium Setup: Tank of at least 80 cm (32 inches), strictly closed (they are excellent jumpers). A cover of floating plants (Limnobium, Salvinia) is essential, shielding the light and providing the vital sense of security for this species. Water flow must be slow.

Diet and Feeding: Surface insectivore/omnivore. In nature it jumps to catch insects or devours fallen ones. In the aquarium it accepts floating flakes, drosophila (fruit flies), mosquito larvae and freeze-dried brine shrimp. Rarely eats food on the bottom.

Water Quality: Robust for a Lebiasinid, it tolerates moderately hard waters, although it thrives and shows the best colors in amber, soft and slightly acidic waters, rich in tannins released from oak or catappa leaves.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Suitable for calm and shaded community aquariums, with Corydoras, small Loricariids, dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma) and other small peaceful Characins. Do not pair with overly boisterous or fast fish that would intimidate them.

Aquarium Reproduction: Very peculiar: unlike its cousin Copella arnoldi, Copeina guttata digs a depression in the sandy substrate, where the eggs are laid. The male then fanatically guards the nest until the fry hatch and swim freely.

Risks and Diseases: The risk of a lethal jump is guaranteed in open aquariums ("crisp" on the floor). Subject to fungal infections in case of injuries caused by jumps against the glass or too intense lighting.