Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance: Known for its slender, silvery body with subtle iridescence and small contrasting markings that can appear darker along the back or tail. It has a streamlined tetra shape built for quick, darting movement in open water.

Surface-Active Behavior: A lively and fast-moving schooling fish that often stays in the upper to mid-water levels. It is known for quick bursts of activity, especially during feeding, and thrives when kept in groups.

Care Requirements:

Tank Conditions: Requires a well-maintained aquarium with stable water conditions and moderate filtration. Ideal water temperature should range between 74–80°F (23–27°C). Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water and a planted tank with open swimming areas and some floating cover.

Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on flakes, micro pellets, and a variety of frozen or live foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and insect larvae. A varied diet helps maintain color and activity.

Compatibility: Generally peaceful and best kept in groups of 6 or more. Suitable for community tanks with other calm, similarly sized fish. Should not be kept with large, aggressive, or fin-nipping species.

Size and Growth:

Adult Size: Can grow up to 1.5–2 inches (4–5 cm) in length.

Growth: Moderate growth, with steady development under stable, clean aquarium conditions.

Overview:

Copella arnoldi, commonly associated with the “Splash Tetra,” is a popular small South American tetra known for its active schooling behavior and unique surface-spawning habits. It is best suited for beginner to intermediate aquarists and thrives in well-planted community aquariums with stable water conditions and open swimming space.