Bleeding Heart Tetra     Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma

Grows to: 2.5"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.

How Many?  They are a schooling fish that should be be purchased in groups of 4 or more.  Six or more is best and will deter fin nipping behavior.

Housing:  Provide plenty of swimming room as well as some bushy plants for hiding.  They look good with a dark substrate.  They swim in the mid to bottom region of the tank.  They enjoy a healthy water current.  Minimum tank size is about 20 gallons. (Temperature- 72-82),  (pH 6.5-7.5)

Tank mates:  They are peaceful fish that should be kept with other peaceful fish of similar size.  May nip fins so it is best to avoid tank mates with large fins.

Feeding:  They will accept a variety of foods.  Feed flakes, along with brine shrimp and frozen foods.  Tetras will show their best color after you have owned it for a few months and have given them a good diet.  They are an omnivore.

Natural Habitat:  Peru.   Fish sold at Elmer's are domestically raised.

Males and Females:  Both sexes have a red "heart" on the body.  Males have a larger dorsal fin.  Females will appear more round bodied when plump with eggs.

See also:  Tetras