A relatively large, deep-bodied tetra known for the distinctive bright red spot on its flank resembling a bleeding heart. They are active schoolers that require plenty of swimming space. While generally peaceful, they can become fin-nippers if kept in numbers fewer than 6 or in an undersized aquarium.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard form. Males will develop beautifully extended, arching dorsal and anal fins as they mature. Must be kept in a school of at least 6 to disperse internal aggression and prevent them from bothering other tank mates.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Wild Type
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesBleeding Heart Tetra Care Guide Summary
The Bleeding Heart Tetra, scientifically known as Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma, belongs to the Characins family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 7 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level zone of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Bleeding Heart Tetra requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 80 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 5.5–7.2 and a general hardness of 2–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Bleeding Heart Tetra is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Bleeding Heart Tetra is typically available in one standard form.
Bleeding Heart Tetra Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Bleeding Heart Tetra, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Bleeding Heart Tetra Compatibility Notes
Classified as peaceful, the Bleeding Heart Tetra is a schooling species that feels most secure in a sizeable group, where natural shoaling behaviour reduces stress and brings out their best colours. When choosing tankmates, avoid housing with slow-moving or long-finned species that may become targets for fin nipping and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bleeding Heart Tetra
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Similar Species
Serpae Tetra
Hyphessobrycon eques
A striking, deep-red schooling fish known for its highly active nature. While hardy and beautiful, Serpae Tetras are notorious fin-nippers. This behavior is usually localized within their own pecking order if kept in large enough schools (8+), but they should never be housed with slow-moving or long-finned tank mates like Bettas, Angelfish, or Gouramis.
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
A stunning schooling fish native to the upper Orinoco and Rio Negro basins in South America. Famous for its brilliant iridescent blue line and a vivid red stripe that extends the full length of its body (distinguishing it from the Neon Tetra). They are strictly schooling fish that thrive in warm, acidic blackwater environments.
Congo Tetra
Phenacogrammus interruptus
A stunning, large schooling fish native to the Congo River basin. Known for their iridescent rainbow colors and active swimming behavior. Despite their size, they are notoriously peaceful and can be skittish, requiring ample swimming space, dim lighting or floating plants, and peaceful tank mates. Avoid keeping with fin-nippers.
Diamond Tetra
Moenkhausia pittieri
A stunning, deep-bodied tetra endemic to Lake Valencia in Venezuela. Named for the brilliant, iridescent scales on its flanks that sparkle like diamonds under the right lighting. They are highly active, peaceful schooling fish that thrive in well-planted aquariums. Males develop spectacular, flowing fins as they mature.
Lemon Tetra
Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis
A peaceful, deep-bodied schooling tetra known for its translucent yellow coloration and striking black and yellow fins. They are robust and active, making them an excellent choice for planted community aquariums. Their colors intensify significantly in a well-established tank with a dark substrate and proper schooling numbers.
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
One of the most iconic freshwater fish in the hobby, famous for its striking iridescent blue and red stripes. Originally from the blackwater streams of the Amazon basin, they prefer slightly cooler water than many tropical fish and must be kept in schools to thrive, display natural behaviors, and feel secure.