[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Characoids – Red-spotted Copeina (Copeina guttata)

Primarily distinguished from the closely related members of the genus Copella by its jawbone characteristics, the Red-spotted Copeina is popular for its striking coloration. Specimens in peak condition have a shiny light blue body overlaid with numerous red spots. The pelvic, anal, and lower lobe of the caudal fin all have red borders as well.

Other common name

• Red-spotted Characin

Family

• Lebiasinidae

Subfamily

• Pyrrhulininae

Distribution

• Amazon basin.

Size

• Up to 6in (15cm) reported, but usually only about half this size.

Behavior

• Peaceful, except during breeding, when males may become aggressive.

Diet

• Wide range of foods accepted.

Aquarium

• Large aquarium recommended, with fine- grained substratum. Plants are not eaten but they may be uprooted during nestbuilding. Tannin-stained water preferred. Water chemistry not critical, but sottish, acid to neutral conditions preferred. Temperature range: 73-82°F (23-28°C ).

Breeding

• Male hollows out a shallow depression in the substratum, and the pair spawn in it. The eggs are guarded by male until they hatch 1 1/2-2 days later. Recommended breeding temperature: 82-86°F (28-30°C).