Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma is one of the larger and more visually dramatic members of the Hyphessobrycon genus, named for the distinctive vivid red blotch on the center of each flank that gives it its evocative common name. The body is a rosy-silver pink, and in mature males the dorsal fin develops into a tall, sickle-shaped sail and the anal fin becomes prominently elongated and flowing, creating a regal silhouette. This sexual dimorphism makes male specimens particularly striking display fish. Native to the blackwater tributaries of the Upper Amazon Basin in Colombia and Peru, the Bleeding Heart Tetra inhabits slow-moving, heavily shaded water with soft, acidic conditions. In captivity, it adapts well to moderately soft water but colors best and breeds most readily in soft, acidic conditions. Preferring larger groups of 6 or more, this species is peaceful, active, and spends most of its time in the middle water column. Its larger size compared to most tetras makes it a commanding presence in the aquarium without any of the aggressiveness sometimes associated with larger South American fish. It is compatible with a wide range of peaceful community species.
