All fish / Lebiasinidae

Rainbow Copella

Copella vilmae

Also known as rainbow copeina, vilma's tetra, rainbow tetra, copella vilmai, red spotted copella, コペラ・ビルマエ

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A slim pencilfish relative with a brownish body, rows of red spots on the scales and a blue-green sheen, with males showing brighter fins. It is kept for its subtle colours and calm surface-dwelling behaviour in soft-water planted or blackwater tanks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

4.5 cm

Temperature

22 to 28 °C

pH

5 to 7

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Group of 6 or more

Diet

Omnivore: small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, daphnia and brine shrimp, plus fine flakes

Swims

Top of the tank

Lifespan

3 to 5 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Upper Amazon basin in Peru, Colombia and Brazil

Breeding

An egg scatterer that lays eggs on plant leaves near the surface, with the male often guarding them. Breeding is achievable in soft, acidic water with dense plants, though it is not common in the hobby.

Good to know

Keep a tight-fitting lid because it can jump, and avoid boisterous or large tankmates. Often confused with other Copella species in shipments.