Bleeding Heart Tetra

 Genus name: Hyphessobrycon Erythrostigma

Also known as: Spotfin Tetra

Distribution:  Columbia, South America

Length:  up to 2.8" (7cm)

Water Temperature: 73-77F (23-25C)

Diet: Worms, small crustaceans, plant matter, dried food

Water: soft and slightly acidic water

Lives: In the middle areas of the aquarium

Community Tank

The Bleeding Heart Tetra is a good-looking fish that gets its name from the heart-shaped red spot, which is positioned where you would expect the heart to be.  The fish is 'lozenge' shape, the body is a silvery iridescent colour, the top fin has a black smudge on it, and both the bottom fin and tail have red colouration as well.

These are peaceful fish, and will shoal well with other large tetras, like the Black Widow Tetra.

The male Bleeding Heart Tetra is recognisable from the female in that he has more elongated dorsal fin. 

Bleeding Heart Tetra are good for the novice aquarist, and they have a life expectancy of about four years in an aquarium.  They are egg layers, and although they can often be seen to go through the motions of breeding, it is very unusual for it to happen in an aquarium. 

For more information on Bleeding Heart Tetras: