BLEEDING HEART TETRA

Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma Care Guide

The Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma, commonly known as the Bleeding Heart Tetra, is a strikingly beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish. Its name comes from the prominent red “heart-shaped” spot on its body, making it a favorite among aquarists. Native to the slow-moving rivers and tributaries of the Amazon Basin, it thrives in well-planted tanks with soft, slightly acidic water.

Quick Overview

Scientific Name	Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
Common Names	Bleeding Heart Tetra
Family	Characidae
Origin	Amazon Basin, South America
Size	2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm)
Lifespan	5–8 years
Temperament	Peaceful, schooling
Diet	Omnivorous

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • A 20-gallon tank minimum for a small group (5–6 individuals). A larger tank is recommended for bigger schools.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: Fine sand or gravel.
  • Plants: Include live plants like Amazon Swords, Java Ferns, and Anubias for cover and natural aesthetics.
  • Decor: Add driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter to mimic their natural environment.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting; subdued lighting can enhance their colors and make them feel secure.
• Filtration and Water Flow:
  • Use a gentle filter to simulate the slow-moving waters of their natural habitat.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72°F–80°F (22°C–27°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately soft (2–12 dGH)
• Water Quality:
  • Perform regular water changes (25% weekly) to maintain water quality.
  • Avoid sudden fluctuations in water parameters.

Diet

The Bleeding Heart Tetra is an omnivore and benefits from a varied diet.

• Staple Foods:
  • High-quality flake food or micro pellets suitable for small fish.
• Live/Frozen Foods:
  • Offer daphnia, bloodworms, and brine shrimp for added protein and variety.
• Vegetable Matter:
  • Occasionally provide finely chopped blanched spinach or zucchini.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Feed 1–2 times daily, providing only what they can consume within 2–3 minutes.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • Peaceful and social, best kept in schools of 6 or more to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.
• Tankmates:
  • Ideal companions include other peaceful species, such as:
    • Tetras (e.g., Neon Tetras, Rummynose Tetras)
    • Corydoras catfish
    • Small rasboras or danios
    • Avoid aggressive or overly large fish that may intimidate or harm them.
• Social Structure:
  • In a group, they exhibit schooling behavior and vibrant displays. Lone individuals may become shy or stressed.

Breeding

Breeding the Bleeding Heart Tetra is possible with the right conditions.

1. Sexing:
   • Males: Slightly slimmer with longer dorsal fins.
   • Females: Rounder and fuller-bodied, especially when carrying eggs.
2. Breeding Tank:
   • Use a 10–15 gallon tank with soft, acidic water (pH 6.0–6.5) and a temperature of 78°F–80°F (25°C–27°C).
   • Provide fine-leaved plants or a spawning mop for egg deposition.
3. Spawning:
   • Condition the pair with high-quality live/frozen foods.
   • Females scatter eggs, which the male fertilizes.
4. Egg Care:
   • Remove adults after spawning, as they may eat the eggs.
   • Eggs hatch within 24–36 hours, and fry become free-swimming after 3–5 days.
5. Fry Care:
   • Feed fry with infusoria or finely powdered fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Common Challenges

1. Schooling Needs:
   • Keep them in groups to prevent stress and promote natural behavior.
2. Water Sensitivity:
   • Sensitive to poor water quality; regular maintenance is essential.
3. Tankmates:
   • Avoid aggressive or predatory fish that may outcompete or harm them.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	Minimum 20 gallons for a group of 6+
Water Parameters	72°F–80°F, pH 6.0–7.0, soft water
Diet	Omnivorous; flake food, live/frozen food, blanched veggies
Temperament	Peaceful, schooling
Lifespan	5–8 years

The Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma (Bleeding Heart Tetra) is an excellent choice for a peaceful community aquarium. Its vibrant colors and schooling behavior add a lively and attractive dynamic to planted tanks. With proper care and attention to water quality, these tetras will thrive and delight aquarists.