Copella callolepis

Adults reach 4 cm in length. Their overall coloration is silvery, with a darker back. The body is decorated with a pattern of red and black spots arranged in rows. A large spot is visible on the dorsal fin. Males differ from females not only in size, being larger, but also in more vivid coloration.

This species originates from South America. Since the species was identified as separate only recently, its exact range has not been established. It is believed to inhabit the middle Amazon basin in Brazil, where it occurs in small streams and channels among dense tropical forests.

This peaceful and active fish, due to its modest size, can coexist only with a limited range of other species. It is best to avoid housing it with larger or aggressive fish. Copella callolepis prefer to stay in groups of 8–10 individuals. During spawning, males become more protective of their eggs and may show unfriendly behaviour toward other tank inhabitants at this time.

A group of 8–10 fish requires a tank of at least 50–60 L; a paludarium with a similar volume is also suitable. Given their breeding behaviour (described below), it is important to provide leaves that hang low over the water surface. Additionally, the water level should be kept so that there is a gap of at least 10 cm or more from the top of the tank. Copella callolepis looks particularly attractive among dense aquatic plants and driftwood, with dimmed lighting. Dried leaves from certain trees placed on the bottom are useful. They serve not only as decoration but also help create water chemistry close to their natural habitat. As these leaves break down, they release tannins into the water, which help lower pH and water dH. Successful long-term keeping depends largely on maintaining stable water parameters within acceptable ranges of temperature and chemistry, as well as regular tank maintenance and reliable equipment operation.

Being omnivorous, this fish readily adapts to most popular foods of appropriate size in a home aquarium. Its diet should be rich in protein and include live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, small bloodworms and fruit fly larvae.

This fish displays an unusual breeding strategy. With the onset of the breeding season, males actively court females, occupying a small area at the water surface and excluding rivals. If the female accepts his courtship, the pair temporarily join to spawn. What follows is remarkable: the fish deposit eggs on a leaf above the water. The male and female, pressing against each other, jump out of the water and stick to the leaf for a few moments, managing to attach several eggs to it. After several such jumps, the clutch can grow to dozens of eggs. After spawning ends, the female swims away, and the male takes care of the future brood. With a sharp tail movement, he splashes water onto the eggs to prevent them from drying out.

Health problems in these fish most often arise from unsuitable keeping conditions. Such conditions weaken the immune system, making them more vulnerable to various diseases.

When selecting fish, pay attention to their activity and scale condition: healthy fish should be active and free from visible damage, sores or coating on the body. Make sure the fish show no signs of emaciation, and their fins are fully extended and not torn at the edges. Avoid buying fish from tanks where dead individuals have been observed or specimens with suspicious behaviour, such as unnatural swaying or lethargy. Since this species is sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters, it is best to ask the seller about the store's keeping conditions and, if possible, acclimate the fish gradually to new conditions.