Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma) 3.5cm

Description

Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma)

Elegant, peaceful and instantly recognisable, the Bleeding Heart Tetra is one of South America's most distinctive schooling fish. Its shimmering silver body is accented by a vivid crimson "bleeding heart" spot behind the gill plate and graceful flowing fins, making it a spectacular centrepiece for larger planted community aquariums.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
  • Common name: Bleeding Heart Tetra
  • Current size: Approximately 3–4 cm
  • Adult size: Approximately 7–8 cm
  • Tank size: 100L+ recommended
  • Difficulty: 🟢 Easy to Moderate
  • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
  • Minimum school: 6–8+ recommended

Is this for you?

āœ”ļø Perfect if:

  • You want a larger, more impressive tetra species.
  • You're creating a peaceful planted community aquarium.
  • You appreciate graceful schooling fish with unique markings.
  • You have a mature aquarium with plenty of swimming space.

āŒ Avoid if:

  • You only intend to keep one or two fish.
  • You keep aggressive or predatory species.
  • Your aquarium is too small for active schooling fish.
  • You have unstable water quality.

Why choose Bleeding Heart Tetras?

Few freshwater fish are as instantly recognisable as the Bleeding Heart Tetra. The vivid crimson spot positioned just behind the gill plate gives the species its memorable name, while its iridescent silver body, elongated dorsal fin and flowing anal fin create an elegant appearance unlike smaller tetra species.

Native to the upper Amazon Basin, Bleeding Heart Tetras inhabit slow-moving rivers shaded by dense rainforest vegetation. In the aquarium they thrive among driftwood, lush aquatic plants and subdued lighting, where their colours become richer and their natural behaviour flourishes.

Unlike many smaller tetras, Bleeding Heart Tetras develop a calm, stately swimming style that makes schools appear graceful and coordinated as they glide through the middle levels of the aquarium.

Benefits

  • Iconic crimson "bleeding heart" marking
  • Larger and more impressive than many tetra species
  • Elegant flowing finnage
  • Peaceful community fish
  • Excellent for planted aquariums
  • Creates beautiful schooling displays

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 24–28°C
  • pH: 5.5–7.5
  • Diet: Quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods and live foods
  • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered with gentle water movement
  • Setup: Spacious planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas and open swimming space
  • Keep in schools of at least 6–8 fish to encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress.
  • Regular water changes and a varied diet help maintain vibrant colouration and healthy finnage.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Corydoras sterbai
  • Black Neon Tetras
  • Rummy Nose Tetras
  • Pearl Gouramis
  • Otocinclus
NTA Insight:
Bleeding Heart Tetras reach their full beauty in mature planted aquariums with subdued lighting and dark substrates. The famous crimson shoulder spot becomes more intense with age and good nutrition, while mature males develop longer dorsal fins that add even more elegance to the school. A group of 10 or more creates a truly impressive display in larger community aquariums.

FAQ

How many Bleeding Heart Tetras should I keep?

We recommend keeping at least 6–8 fish together. Larger groups display more natural schooling behaviour, increased confidence and reduced stress.

Are Bleeding Heart Tetras peaceful?

Yes. They are peaceful community fish that coexist well with other gentle tetras, Corydoras, gouramis and similar-sized South American species.

Can they live in planted aquariums?

Absolutely. They thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, shaded areas and stable water conditions that resemble their natural Amazonian habitat.

Are they suitable for beginners?

Yes. While slightly larger and more sensitive to poor water quality than some smaller tetras, they are straightforward to care for in a well-maintained, established aquarium.

How long do Bleeding Heart Tetras live?

With proper care, stable water quality and a varied diet, Bleeding Heart Tetras commonly live between 5 and 8 years.

Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma) 3.5cm

Product form

SKU: AST24M

Out of stock,  

$39.00


All prices include GST
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    Description

    Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma)

    Elegant, peaceful and instantly recognisable, the Bleeding Heart Tetra is one of South America's most distinctive schooling fish. Its shimmering silver body is accented by a vivid crimson "bleeding heart" spot behind the gill plate and graceful flowing fins, making it a spectacular centrepiece for larger planted community aquariums.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
    • Common name: Bleeding Heart Tetra
    • Current size: Approximately 3–4 cm
    • Adult size: Approximately 7–8 cm
    • Tank size: 100L+ recommended
    • Difficulty: 🟢 Easy to Moderate
    • Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish
    • Minimum school: 6–8+ recommended

    Is this for you?

    āœ”ļø Perfect if:

    • You want a larger, more impressive tetra species.
    • You're creating a peaceful planted community aquarium.
    • You appreciate graceful schooling fish with unique markings.
    • You have a mature aquarium with plenty of swimming space.

    āŒ Avoid if:

    • You only intend to keep one or two fish.
    • You keep aggressive or predatory species.
    • Your aquarium is too small for active schooling fish.
    • You have unstable water quality.

    Why choose Bleeding Heart Tetras?

    Few freshwater fish are as instantly recognisable as the Bleeding Heart Tetra. The vivid crimson spot positioned just behind the gill plate gives the species its memorable name, while its iridescent silver body, elongated dorsal fin and flowing anal fin create an elegant appearance unlike smaller tetra species.

    Native to the upper Amazon Basin, Bleeding Heart Tetras inhabit slow-moving rivers shaded by dense rainforest vegetation. In the aquarium they thrive among driftwood, lush aquatic plants and subdued lighting, where their colours become richer and their natural behaviour flourishes.

    Unlike many smaller tetras, Bleeding Heart Tetras develop a calm, stately swimming style that makes schools appear graceful and coordinated as they glide through the middle levels of the aquarium.

    Benefits

    • Iconic crimson "bleeding heart" marking
    • Larger and more impressive than many tetra species
    • Elegant flowing finnage
    • Peaceful community fish
    • Excellent for planted aquariums
    • Creates beautiful schooling displays

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 24–28°C
    • pH: 5.5–7.5
    • Diet: Quality micro pellets, flakes, frozen foods and live foods
    • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered with gentle water movement
    • Setup: Spacious planted aquarium with driftwood, shaded areas and open swimming space
    • Keep in schools of at least 6–8 fish to encourage natural behaviour and reduce stress.
    • Regular water changes and a varied diet help maintain vibrant colouration and healthy finnage.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Corydoras sterbai
    • Black Neon Tetras
    • Rummy Nose Tetras
    • Pearl Gouramis
    • Otocinclus
    NTA Insight:
    Bleeding Heart Tetras reach their full beauty in mature planted aquariums with subdued lighting and dark substrates. The famous crimson shoulder spot becomes more intense with age and good nutrition, while mature males develop longer dorsal fins that add even more elegance to the school. A group of 10 or more creates a truly impressive display in larger community aquariums.

    FAQ

    How many Bleeding Heart Tetras should I keep?

    We recommend keeping at least 6–8 fish together. Larger groups display more natural schooling behaviour, increased confidence and reduced stress.

    Are Bleeding Heart Tetras peaceful?

    Yes. They are peaceful community fish that coexist well with other gentle tetras, Corydoras, gouramis and similar-sized South American species.

    Can they live in planted aquariums?

    Absolutely. They thrive in mature planted aquariums with driftwood, shaded areas and stable water conditions that resemble their natural Amazonian habitat.

    Are they suitable for beginners?

    Yes. While slightly larger and more sensitive to poor water quality than some smaller tetras, they are straightforward to care for in a well-maintained, established aquarium.

    How long do Bleeding Heart Tetras live?

    With proper care, stable water quality and a varied diet, Bleeding Heart Tetras commonly live between 5 and 8 years.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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