The Red Cherry Tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma), also known as the Bleeding Heart Tetra, is a striking freshwater fish admired for its vivid red hues and calm schooling behavior. Measuring 2.5 to 3cm, these juveniles already show their signature coloration—bright red bodies with a soft iridescent shimmer and a characteristic red “spot” near the pectoral fin, resembling a drop of blood (hence the name “bleeding heart”). Native to the Amazon River basin, these peaceful fish thrive in planted tanks and gentle community setups, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma

• Common Names: Red Cherry Tetra, Bleeding Heart Tetra

• Size: 2.5–3cm (can reach 5–6cm as adults)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, shoaling

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Origin: Upper Amazon River basin (Peru, Colombia)

• Best kept in groups of 6 or more

🌊 Water Conditions

Red Cherry Tetras prefer soft, slightly acidic water and a well-maintained, planted environment. Mimicking their natural habitat will ensure vibrant color and healthy behavior.

• Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.2

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for a small school

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Filtration: Moderate flow with excellent oxygenation

• Lighting: Moderate to dim (enhances their natural colors)

Adding leaf litter (like Indian almond leaves) or driftwood can simulate blackwater conditions and reduce stress.

🐟 Tank Mates

Red Cherry Tetras are social and peaceful, ideal for community tanks with other calm species. When housed in groups, they are confident, active, and display natural schooling behaviors.

Compatible tank mates include:

• Other peaceful tetras (e.g., Neon, Glowlight, Ember)

• Corydoras catfish

• Otocinclus

• Rasboras (e.g., Harlequin, Chili)

• Peaceful dwarf cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma)

• Shrimp (with caution) and snails

Avoid:

• Aggressive fish

• Fin-nippers

• Very large species that might see them as prey

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Red Cherry Tetras are omnivores and do best on a diverse diet that includes both protein and plant matter:

• High-quality flakes or micro pellets

• Live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, or daphnia

• Freeze-dried options (crushed)

• Spirulina or algae-based flakes for added color enhancement

Feed once or twice daily, offering only what they can finish in a couple of minutes to prevent water fouling.

🧼 Care and Maintenance

• Conduct weekly water changes (25–30%)

• Keep water parameters stable and avoid sudden changes

• Provide ample swimming space along with hiding areas (plants, driftwood)

• Use a secure lid—they can jump if startled

• Monitor for signs of stress or disease, such as color fading or clamped fins

Although hardy, they flourish in well-maintained, peaceful tanks with stable conditions and clean water.

🌿 Why Choose the Red Cherry Tetra?

The Red Cherry Tetra adds a burst of color and graceful schooling motion to any freshwater aquarium. Its ease of care, peaceful disposition, and visual appeal make it an excellent choice for planted tanks, nano setups, and beginner-friendly communities. With proper care, their fiery red tones and distinctive heart-shaped mark truly shine.

Brighten your aquarium with the beauty and serenity of the Red Cherry Tetra—order now and enjoy nature’s elegance in motion!