Bloodfin Tetra

Bloodfin Tetra, Aphyocharax anisitsi, is a South American characin native to the Paraná, Paraguay, and Uruguay river systems of Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. It inhabits rivers, streams, floodplain channels, and vegetated backwaters where water is generally clear to lightly stained and moderately flowing. These habitats are typically warm, well oxygenated, and contain a mixture of open swimming areas and submerged vegetation.

Adult Bloodfin Tetras typically reach about 2 to 2.5 inches in length. The body is slender and highly reflective, displaying a bright silver coloration that flashes under aquarium lighting. Their defining feature is the vivid red to blood-red coloration of the caudal, anal, and often pelvic fins, which contrasts sharply against the metallic silver body. Healthy specimens maintained in large schools often display especially intense fin coloration, creating a striking visual effect as they move through the aquarium.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a proper school, though larger aquariums provide a much more impressive display. Bloodfin Tetras are active schooling fish and should be maintained in groups of six or more, with larger groups encouraging stronger coloration and more natural behavior. The aquarium should provide open swimming space while incorporating plants, driftwood, and shaded areas around the perimeter.

Water conditions should remain stable and clean. Temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit are appropriate, with a pH range of roughly 6.0 to 7.8 and soft to moderately hard water. Bloodfin Tetras are highly adaptable and tolerant of a broad range of aquarium conditions, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Feeding is straightforward. In nature they consume insects, larvae, small crustaceans, and other aquatic invertebrates. In the aquarium they readily accept flakes, pellets, frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp, as well as a variety of prepared foods. A varied diet helps maintain vibrant coloration and overall health.

Temperament is peaceful, active, and community-friendly. Bloodfin Tetras do well with other small to medium-sized non-aggressive fish including rasboras, Corydoras, rainbowfish, peaceful cichlids, and other tetras. Their active nature makes them especially attractive in larger community aquariums where schooling behavior can be fully appreciated.

Breeding is possible in captivity. Like many characins, they are egg scatterers that release eggs among plants or spawning media. Adults provide no parental care and may consume eggs if left in the breeding aquarium.

Aphyocharax anisitsi is a hardy, energetic, and visually striking tetra that combines brilliant red finnage with a reflective silver body. Its adaptability, peaceful temperament, and constant schooling activity have made the Bloodfin Tetra a long-standing favorite for community aquariums and one of the most reliable schooling fish in the hobby.