Redback bleeding heart tetra - Hyphessobrycon pyrrhonotus

Scientific name: Hyphessobrycon pyrrhonotus

Common name: Redback bleeding heart tetra

Family: Characidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.3 - 7.6

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 15°N (107.14 - 267.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Top levels

Introduction

The Redback Bleeding Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon pyrrhonotus) is a peaceful and vibrant fish native to the Amazonian River Basins in South America. Its striking red coloration and calm demeanor make it a popular choice for community aquariums. With proper care and an ideal environment, this species can thrive and enhance the beauty of your tank.

Food and Feeding

Redback Bleeding Heart Tetras are omnivorous and will readily accept quality flakes or small pellets as their staple diet. To maintain their vibrant colors and overall health, supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp twice a week. Feeding them a varied diet helps replicate their natural feeding habits in the wild.

Origin

Native to South America, these tetras inhabit the Amazonian River Basins. They are found in slow-moving streams and rivers with soft water and dense vegetation, conditions that should be replicated in their aquarium for optimal health.

Sexing

Male Redback Bleeding Heart Tetras can be distinguished by their more intense coloration and elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females tend to be slightly rounder, especially when ready to spawn.

Breeding

While breeding in home aquariums is rare, this species is believed to be an egg scatterer in the wild. If attempting to breed, provide a separate breeding tank with soft, acidic water and fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for the eggs to settle on. Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent predation. The eggs should hatch in 1-2 days, and the fry can be fed on Infusoria or finely crushed flake food.

Lifespan

With proper care, the Redback Bleeding Heart Tetra can live for 3-5 years, bringing joy and beauty to any community tank setup.

Tank Setup

To mimic their natural habitat, use soft water with excellent filtration. The tank should have plenty of plants, including floating varieties, to provide shaded areas and reduce stress. Open swimming spaces are essential, as these fish are active swimmers. Maintain water parameters within their preferred range: a pH of 6.3-7.6, a hardness of 6-15°N, and a temperature of 23-28°C (73.4-82.4°F).

Compatibility

Redback Bleeding Heart Tetras are peaceful and do best in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Ideal tankmates include small tetras, rasboras, peaceful gouramis, and Corydoras catfish. Keeping them in groups of at least six ensures their social needs are met and promotes natural schooling behavior.

Short Description

Redback Bleeding Heart Tetras are sensitive to water quality and require a well-maintained tank. Their vibrant red coloration and peaceful nature make them a standout addition to any aquarium. Keep them in groups and provide a suitable environment to witness their full beauty and natural behaviors.