Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma)

The Bleeding Heart Tetra is a relatively hardy, active and peaceful fish but can be quite shy.

They are a unique good looking fish and quite sort after, they are distinguished by their small red spot on their sides that looks like a heart.

These species need to be kept in small groups in the aquarium, so they feel secure and at ease, if they are kept alone they can become aggressive and will nip fins of other fish due to stress which can also lead to them dying.

Photos

Feeding

In the home aquarium, the Bleeding Heart Tetra will readily accept most good quality dried foods such as granules, flakes and sinking pellets. These modern food products have been developed to provide all adequate nutrition to maintain your fish's health and dietary requirements.

Providing additional foodstuffs such as live, frozen, and freeze-dried meals such as bloodworm, daphnia, and tubifex once or twice a week will provide additional benefits to your fish's health and well-being but is not a must for this fish.

It should be noted that bloodworms should only be given as an occasional treat and should not be used as the staple diet as they are difficult for fish to digest and can potentially cause blockages.

This fish is an omnivore in the wild, meaning it will consume some vegetable matter. Although most modern fish foods take this into account and include them in their products, you can still supplement your fish's diet with blanched vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and zucchini. Ensure you do not overfeed your fish and remove any leftovers the following day.

Tank Mates

1 interesting tank mate ideas for the Bleeding Heart Tetra could include: