Freshwater

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Part II: Fish and How to Care for Them
Characins
The characins are one of the most diverse groups of fish, including the small
tetras and the big, bad piranha of movie fame. Members of this group are
characterized by the bones that link their swim bladder and inner ear. Many
characins also have a small adipose fin on their top side between the tail and
dorsal fins.
Glowlight tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)
The glowlight tetra of South America is an interesting little fish with a glowing
line running from its eye to the base of its tail and a small adipose fin behind
the dorsal. When the lights in the tank are dim, you can easily see the beautiful
red stripe running down its side.
The peaceful yet very active glowlight tetra prefers soft, acidic water and a
well-planted tank that is kept between 75–80 degrees F. It is omnivorous and
swims in all levels of the tank. It is normal for their colors to fade if they
become too stressed out.
This species is a schooling fish and must be kept with its own kind in groups
of five or more in order for it to thrive successfully. This fish will reach
lengths of 1–1 1 ⁄4 inches and has been reported to live as long as ten years in
good aquarium conditions.
Good tankmates for this fish include other small tetras, small gouramis,
danios, angelfish, small catfish, and livebearers.
Bleeding heart tetra (Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma)
The South American bleeding heart tetra earned its name from its physical
attributes. This silver-colored fish has a red spot on its side that makes it
look as if Clint Eastwood just shot it at high noon. If you loved the movie E.T.,
you will really enjoy this wonderful little fish.
The bleeding heart needs plenty of swimming room and is easily spooked.
This semi-peaceful fish (it may be aggressive toward smaller fish) is omnivorous
and swims near the middle level of the tank. The bleeding heart tetra
grows to lengths of 2 1 ⁄2 inches and should be kept in temperatures between
72–82 degrees F. Make sure you provide plenty of bushy plants for this
species.
Like many other tetras, this fish should be kept in a school of its own kind, so
that it will feel safe and secure. Bleeding heart tetras will happily eat a wide
variety of foods including brine shrimp, bloodworms, frozen foods, and
flakes. When you first get these fish home they may have a slightly “washedout”
look (most species will for a few hours to a few days), but they will gain
back their beautiful colors after they have settled into their new home.