Argentine Bloodfin (Aphyocharax anisitsi)

Family: Characidae

Argentine Bloodfin — a Characidae from South America and the Philippines. Reaches 4.1–6.1 cm; keep at 18–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH hardness
10–20 dGH
Adult length
4.1–6.1 cm
Minimum tank
45 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory
Origin
South America and the Philippines

Species overview

Aphyocharax anisitsi is a Characidae from South America and the Philippines. In the wild it prefers blackwater streams and flooded forest; in the aquarium it stays mostly peaceful. Plan on 4.1–6.1 cm of adult fish at 18–28 °C. Related profiles: Aphyocharax erythrurus, Aphyocharax nattereri, Aphyocharax rathbuni.

Native biotope

Habitat
Blackwater streams and flooded forest
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Dark sand and leaf litter
Hardscape
Driftwood and dense plant edges
Plants
Floating and shaded plants appreciated

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Strong shoalers; keep in groups of 8 or more
Diet
Omnivore with carnivorous tilt
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer among fine plants

Frequently asked questions

Is Argentine Bloodfin easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Argentine Bloodfin need?

Set the heater to 18–28 °C and avoid swings. pH 6–8, GH 10–20 dGH suit it.

How big does Argentine Bloodfin get, and what tank size?

Expect 4.1–6.1 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 45 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Argentine Bloodfin eat?

Omnivore with carnivorous tilt. It forages naturally over dark sand and leaf litter, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Argentine Bloodfin live with other fish?

Mostly peaceful; larger species predatory; strong shoalers; keep in groups of 8 or more. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Argentine Bloodfin come from?

Its home waters are South America and the Philippines — blackwater streams and flooded forest, with still to gentle current.

Does Argentine Bloodfin jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Argentine Bloodfin breed?

Egg-scatterer among fine plants. Subtle; females fuller-bodied.