Copeland's Tetra

Hyphessobrycon copelandi is distributed across Colombia and Peru in slow-moving, forest-shaded streams and pools characterised by soft, acidic water with abundant leaf litter. The body is slender and elongated for the genus, with a warm amber-gold tint, a faint dark lateral stripe, and reddish fin colouration that intensifies in conditioned blackwater.

In the aquarium, the best results come from a dedicated blackwater setup with dark substrate, botanicals, and gentle filtration. Groups of eight or more display natural schooling behaviour and the males will spar gently with each other in low-intensity fin-flaring displays that are harmless and entertaining.

This species is not difficult once its water requirements are met. Varied feeding with micro-pellets and small live or frozen foods maintains peak health and colouration.