bleeding heart tetra   bleeding heart tetra care

Hyphessobrycon Erythrostigma

(Bleeding Heart Tetra)

Care Level: Easy
Tank Conditions: 72-77°F; pH 6.0-6.5; dH 4-8
Temperament: Peaceful
Max. Size In Aquarium: Up to 2"
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Thailand, Farm Raised
Family: Characidae

 

The Bleeding Heart Tetra gets its name from the markings on its body. The blushing red near the gills gives this South American fish a "bleeding heart" look. The normal color for this fish is a light pink. When the fish is in a group of it's own kind, it will show off, and become a very intense red-pink color. Perfect for the community aquarium, this hardy tetra will be a great choice for the beginner to the expert aquarist.
A planted tank of at least 30 gallons will be the ideal environment for this tetra. Rocks and driftwood help mirror its natural habitat and will help to reduce stress on the fish. Provide adequate free swimming space for these tetras. The Bleeding Heart Tetra does best will soft slightly acidic water with high filtration.
The Bleeding Heart Tetra will breed occasionally in an aquarium setting and a hospital or "breeding tank" will be necessary. Slightly acidic water is best for optimal breeding habits. After the eggs are laid removing the parents will be necessary to reduce the number of lost fry. The males have rather longer dorsal and anal fins then the females, and a slimmer body.
The Bleeding Heart Tetra will accept many small foods such as brine shrimp or daphnia, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, micro pellet food, and a high quality flake food. My Bleeding Hearts practically jump out of the water when I feed them fruit flies. They can be very darty for other types of food as well, taking food from slower eating fish.

bleedingheart tetra