Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
| Bleeding heart tetra | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Male | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Characidae |
| Genus: | Hyphessobrycon |
| Species: | H. erythrostigma |
| Binomial name | |
| Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma (Fowler, 1943) | |
The bleeding heart tetra, Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma is a peaceful mid-dwelling community fish in the aquarium. It grows to the size of 64mm and lives about five years. It requires warm water (78 °F or 26 °C). This fish, like most tetras, needs soft, acid water, pH 6.5-6.8, with plenty of plants.
General
This fish is somewhat susceptible to velvet disease and ich. It is sensitive to water conditions and requires frequent partial water changes. It does not usually live more than five years.
Compatibility/tankmates
Bleeding hearts are generally a peaceful fish but fin nipping may become a problem as males can be territorial. They are best kept in a small school (six or more) and not with fish with larger fins such as angelfish and bettas. They do well in a variety of community tanks, and like most tetras do best in groups and with bushy plants. They are a suitable tankmate for corydoras and other bottom-dwelling species. With a few exceptions they are peaceful when surrounded by their own kind, like tiger barbs. They are also mischievous, nipping at others' tails and entering their territory looking for food.
Sexing
The female is more full bodied and the male has a larger dorsal fin. 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/spawning
Breeding is hard but not impossible. They have been bred in captivity and are egg layers.
Coloration/fins
Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma have a splendid body shape and, after a month or two in captivity, their colors get very beautiful, especially when fed (two or three days a week) with frozen brine shrimp. The dorsal fin of the males can become long and flowing. Both sexes have the eye-catching, blood-red spot at the heart area. Both also have the black and white patch on the dorsal fin.
Habitat/care/maintenance
The natural distribution is described as the Upper Amazon River basin. The bleeding heart tetra is readily available. It can be obtained from most fish and pet stores, as well as online.
See also
References
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