Mixed Variety

Mixed variety bleeding heart tetras are Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma kept or sold without separating the standard wild-type fish from lighter forms such as albino. The species is a medium characin from the upper Amazon region, recognized by its rosy silver body, red shoulder spot, and, in many mature males, a taller dorsal fin. In a mixed group, some fish may show stronger red and black markings while others appear pale or yellowish.

Aquarists keep bleeding heart tetras as peaceful schooling fish, usually in planted or shaded community tanks with warm, clean water and gentle flow. They look better and behave more calmly in a group than as pairs. Mixed variety fish are fine for display, but breeding for a particular look is easier when the parents are selected before spawning; adults scatter eggs and may eat them, so planned breeding uses a separate tank.

Colors: Albino, Wild Type