Bleeding Blue Tetra (Hyphessobrycon margitae)
The Bleeding Blue Tetra is a vibrant, peaceful community fish native to the Amazon Basin. Known for its striking blue body with red and orange accents, this small fish is ideal for freshwater aquariums.
It thrives in warm, well-oxygenated water with soft, slightly acidic conditions. These fish are active swimmers and prefer groups of at least six to reduce stress and promote natural behavior.
Key Features
- Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
- Life Span: 3 to 5 years
- Water Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- Water pH: 5.5–7.0
- Water Hardness: 1–8 dGH
- Compatibility: Peaceful community fish; avoid with aggressive species
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hyphessobrycon margitae |
| Common Name | Bleeding Blue Tetra |
| Size | 1.5 inches |
| Temperature | 72–82°F |
| pH Range | 5.5–7.0 |
| Hardness | 1–8 dGH |
| Adult Lifespan | 3–5 years |
FAQ
What is the ideal group size for Bleeding Blue Tetras?
A group of at least six is recommended to promote natural behavior and reduce stress.
Can Bleeding Blue Tetras live with other community fish?
Yes, they are peaceful and work well with other non-aggressive community fish such as neon tetras and dwarf gouramis.
What type of water conditions do they prefer?
Soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0 and a temperature range of 72–82°F.



Irene Stewart –
The Bleeding Blue Tetras are stunning and very active in the tank. I kept them in a 10-gallon community setup with neon tetras and they get along well. The colors are vivid and they swim in schools, adding a lot of visual interest.
Leonard MacDonald –
Great fish for a beginner-friendly aquarium. They are easy to care for and stay healthy with regular water changes. The blue and red coloring is very noticeable and adds a lively feel to the tank.
Amelia Skinner –
I’ve had these tetras for over a year and they remain vibrant and active. They don’t eat much and adapt quickly to the tank environment. Perfect for a small freshwater setup.