All fish / Lebiasinidae

Blotched Pyrrhulina

Pyrrhulina spilota

Also known as spotted pyrrhulina, blotch pyrrhulina, pyrrhulina spilota, splash tetra, red spotted pyrrhulina

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A slim, pike-shaped pencilfish relative with a tan to brownish body, a dark stripe through the eye and a bold dark blotch on the dorsal fin, while males show red edging on the fins. Keepers value it as a calm, surface-dwelling fish for planted, softwater blackwater aquariums.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

6 cm

Temperature

23 to 28 °C

pH

5 to 7

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

Group of 6 or more

Diet

Carnivore: small live and frozen foods such as daphnia, bloodworm and brine shrimp, plus quality flakes and micro pellets

Swims

Top of the tank

Lifespan

4 to 6 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Brazil: Amazon basin (Rio Negro and Rio Madeira regions)

Breeding

Pairs spawn on broad leaves, laying eggs that the male then guards and fans until they hatch. It has been bred in captivity but is not often done, and success depends on soft, acidic water and plenty of small live food for the fry.

Good to know

Males can spar over territory near the surface, so give it floating plants and broken sightlines. A tight-fitting lid is needed because it can jump, and it is easily confused with other Pyrrhulina species in the trade.