More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 80 litres / 21.13 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.6cm / 2.20inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 4.0-7.5 |
General Description
The Hyphessobrycon socolofi, commonly known as the Lesser Bleeding Heart Tetra, is one of the species within the Hyphessobrycon genus, characterized by a reddish humeral spot and specific dental and scale arrangements typical to the bleeding heart subgroup. Noteworthy features include the presence of 6-14 maxillary teeth, 7-9 scales above and 5-7 below the lateral line, and 26-33 anal fin rays.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal maintenance, it is recommended to house a mixed-sex group of at least 8-10 individuals in a well-furnished tank with live plants and a dark substrate. Creating shady spots with wood roots and branches, along with the addition of dried leaf litter, enhances the biotope-style feel. Regular water changes are essential, as the species is intolerant of organic pollutants and requires clean water conditions.
Behaviour
The H. socolofi is generally peaceful, making it an ideal community aquarium resident. Although adult males exhibit territorial behavior to some extent, they are compatible with similarly-sized characids, gasteropelecids, smaller catfish species, and non-predatory medium-sized cichlids. The interaction between rival males can be captivating, particularly during displays of coloration for female attention or hierarchical positioning.
Feeding and Diet
Being an opportunistic omnivore, this tetra species consumes a varied diet in the wild, including fruit remnants, aquatic insects, and fish scales. In captivity, they readily accept small live and frozen foods like bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia, alongside high-quality dried flakes and granules. Submerged pieces of fresh fruit can also be offered occasionally to supplement their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
H. socolofi is an egg scatterer species that exhibits no parental care. Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males growing larger and showcasing more intense colors compared to females. Adult males have extended dorsal, pelvic, and anal fins, while females tend to have a rounder shape, especially when gravid.
Habitat and Distribution
This tetra species is native to the rio Negro basin in Amazonas state, Brazil, and the rio Nhamundá, a smaller tributary draining into the Amazon. Typically found in sluggish tributaries and forest lakes, H. socolofi prefers habitats with submerged woody structures and brown, poorly buffered water tinted by organic compounds. It coexists with various fish species like Hemigrammus and Apistogramma.