Bloodfin Tetra: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank do bloodfin tetras need?

At least 20 gallons (76 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 20 gallon high. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish in a proper group, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Aphyocharax anisitsi.

How many bloodfin tetras in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if bloodfin tetras are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many bloodfin tetras
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	up to 11
29 gallon	up to 16
40 gallon breeder	up to 22
55 gallon	up to 31
75 gallon	up to 43
125 gallon	60 or more

Check bloodfin tetras against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Keep at least 6. Alone or in twos and threes, bloodfin tetras hide, stop eating well, or pick on each other.

Tank mates for bloodfin tetras

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and will bully or kill peaceful fish such as bloodfin tetra.

Questions and answers

What size tank do bloodfin tetras need?

At least 20 gallons (76 liters) for a group of 6. The smallest standard tank that works is the 20 gallon high. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many bloodfin tetras should be kept together?

At least 6. Bloodfin tetras are social animals and only behave naturally in a group. More is better if the tank has room.

Can bloodfin tetras live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Bloodfin tetra needs at least 20 gallons (76 liters).

What temperature do bloodfin tetras need?

64–82 °F (18–28 °C), with a pH of 6–8. A heater is only needed if your room gets cold.

Can bloodfin tetras live with a betta?

Usually, yes, in a tank of 20 gallons (76 liters) or more. They like the same water: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C). Every betta has its own temper, so watch closely for the first week and have a spare tank ready.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.