Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon margitae) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra (Hyphessobrycon margitae) is a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish, known for its striking appearance and vibrant colors. It is a popular choice for aquarists due to its vivid coloration and tranquil nature, making it an excellent addition to community tanks.

Physical Appearance:

• Size: The Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra is a small fish, typically growing to 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm) in length, making it ideal for small to medium-sized aquariums.
• Coloration: The most notable feature of the Blue Bleeding Heart Tetra is its bright, translucent body with a unique blueish tint. It also features a distinctive blue or black spot near the base of its tail, giving it the “bleeding heart” appearance. The red spot is surrounded by a light, pale area, enhancing the contrast and making it stand out.
• Shape: The body of the Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra is slender and torpedo-shaped, which is typical of most tetras, allowing them to swim gracefully in schools.
• Fins: The fins are typically transparent with a slight red tint, complementing the color patterns on the body.

Behavior:

• Peaceful: The  Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra is a very peaceful and calm species, making it perfect for community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. It is not known to be territorial or overly competitive with other species.
• Schooling Fish: Like most tetras, the Blue Bleeding Heart Tetra is a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 to feel secure and display natural behaviors. They swim actively in the middle and upper levels of the aquarium.
• Active and Playful: These tetras are active swimmers, often seen darting around in small schools, creating a lively and attractive display in the aquarium.

Habitat Requirements:

• Origin: Native to South America, specifically the Amazon River Basin in Brazil.
• Water Conditions: They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and a temperature range of 72-80°F (22-27°C). They prefer soft to moderately hard water and enjoy a well-filtered tank with gentle water flow.
• Tank Setup: A planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places, such as rocks, driftwood, and plants, is ideal for these fish. They do best in a dimly lit tank with areas of shade where they can feel comfortable. Bright, direct lighting should be avoided.

Diet:

• Omnivorous: Bleeding Blue Heart Tetras are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality flake foods, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They also enjoy finely chopped vegetables and occasional plant matter.

Lifespan:

• Bleeding Blue Heart Tetras generally live for 3-5 years with proper care, though they may live longer in ideal conditions.

Care Level:

• Beginner-Friendly: Due to their peaceful nature and adaptability to a range of water conditions, the Blue Bleeding Heart Tetra is a great option for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Conclusion:

The Bleeding Blue Heart Tetra is a stunning and peaceful fish, known for its vibrant blue and red coloration. It’s an ideal species for community aquariums, particularly when kept in schools. With proper care, including stable water conditions and a well-maintained tank, this fish will thrive and provide a beautiful and lively addition to your aquarium for several years.