Bleeding heart tetra

The bleeding heart tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma) is a freshwater tropical fish native to the Upper Amazon River basin. It grows to the size of 64 mm and lives for around five years.

Sexing
The female is more full bodied and the male has a larger dorsal fin, whereas the male is distinguished by longer extended dorsal and anal fins. The dorsal fin is elongated into a sickle shape that arches to the length of the tail base. The female has a shorter rounded fin.

Breeding in captivity
This egg-laying fish has been bred successfully, with difficulty, in captivity.

Appearance
The dorsal fin and anal fin of the males can become long and flowing. Both sexes have the eye-catching blood-red spot in the pectoral area. Both also have the black and white patch on the dorsal fin.

Aquarium care
A group of 6 fishes will feel comfortable in a 15-gallon tank, but a bigger tank (preferably 30 gallons) and more fishes are recommended.

According to the Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, it prefers water of 23 - 28 °C that is soft (50-100 mg/L) and acidic (pH 5.6-6.9), and a diet of prepared foods and small live foods. It is recommended that peat be added to the filter to help keep the water conditions suitable for it.