Caudo, Spotted livebearer (Phalloceros caudomaculatus) — 3-4cm

Overview

Spotted Livebearer (Phalloceros caudomaculatus), also known as the Caudo, is a hardy, peaceful dwarf livebearer with subtle spotted markings, ideal for planted community aquariums. Native to South America, especially southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and adjacent parts of Argentina, this species is prized for its manageable size, peaceful nature, and easy breeding habits. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, this charming nano livebearer is ideal for the planted aquarium enthusiast.

Appearance

The Spotted Livebearer typically reaches around 4 cm in total length, making it a small livebearer. The body is elongated and robust, with a pale silver or olive base color marked with subtle dark spots or mottling along the flanks. The fins are delicate and transparent, often showing subtle hints of color in well-conditioned males. Females are generally larger and more robust. Healthy specimens have bright, clear eyes and smooth, undamaged scales.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Phalloceros caudomaculatus is native to South America, especially southern Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and adjacent parts of Argentina, where it inhabits slow-moving streams, ponds, ditches, and marshes with dense aquatic vegetation. These waters are typically soft to moderately hard, warm to temperate, and slightly acidic to neutral. The substrate is composed of fine mud or sand, and the fish spend much of their time among plants and cover, feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium of at least 60 litres is recommended for a small group of Spotted Livebearers. Use a fine gravel or sand substrate and incorporate plenty of live plants such as Java moss, Java fern, Cryptocoryne species, and floating plants to provide cover and hiding places. Ensure good filtration and gentle water movement. A secure lid is advisable, as livebearers can jump when startled. Maintain stable, warm water with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Feeding

The Spotted Livebearer is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet. Offer quality flake or micro-pellets as a staple, supplemented with vegetable matter, algae-based foods, and small frozen or live foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp. Feed twice daily in small amounts to maintain excellent water quality.

Behaviour

This livebearer is peaceful, active, and social, constantly on the move and best kept in a small group. Males may harass females, so keep a female-heavy ratio if possible. When kept in proper numbers, the Spotted Livebearer is confident and displays natural behavior. They occupy all levels of the aquarium and are most active during the day.

Tank Mates

The Spotted Livebearer is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium with other small fish. Good tankmates include other peaceful small livebearers, small peaceful tetras, small rasboras, Corydoras catfish, and small peaceful bottom-dwellers. Avoid large predatory fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, large loaches, and any fish large enough to eat them.

Breeding

Breeding the Spotted Livebearer is straightforward. This is a prolific livebearer that breeds readily in community tanks if both sexes are present. Females give birth to free-swimming fry. Provide dense plants or breeding cover if you want to raise young, as adults may eat fry.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is a leading UK aquatics specialist offering hardy and peaceful livebearers like the Spotted Livebearer direct to your door. Every fish is quarantined, inspected, and dispatched with expert care to ensure it arrives in peak condition. With decades of experience, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer support, we make it easy to add peaceful, easy-to-keep species to your collection. Order online today and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK.