Both its common and scientific names reference the distinct spot of color present on the tail fin, which is one of its defining characteristics.

[3] The spot of bright orange on the basal half of the caudal fin is what gives the tailspot tetra its common name.

[6] This complex is not official, but species have been placed in it based upon phenotypic similarities and a history of synonymy with Bryconops caudomaculatus.

[11] Due to striking visual similarities and subsequent routine misidentification, B. florenceae (named in 2021) is a candidate for the complex, though this has not been professionally recognized.

[12] In 2011, however, research by Oliveira et al. prompted the three to be moved to the family Iguanodectidae, which was revived from Eigenmann's previous work.

[18] Researchers determined that an aluminum concentration of 3.0 mg/L has a high likelihood of leading to an atrioventricular block in B. caudomaculatus, meaning that the heart's ability to beat effectively gets compromised due to interruption (blockage) of the responsible electrical impulse.

[19] As part of its omnivorous diet, the tailspot tetra will actively leap from the water to target flying insects, especially during the twilight hours.

[17] In turn, the tailspot tetra is not only a regular part of the food chain as a source for animals that eat small fish, but it is also preyed upon by parasites.

[22][23] Though the tailspot tetra's conservation status has not been evaluated, it is known to be taken from the wild in places including Guyana, Peru, and Venezuela for export in the aquarium industry, especially in the United Kingdom.