Fin's Fish Guide
The Andean pupfish (Orestias frontosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Andean pupfish is an egg-laying toothcarp (Cyprinodontidae) from the high Andes of South America. The species is small, has an angular, broad head and lacks pelvic fins, which is characteristic of the genus. It inhabits cold, oxygen-rich lakes and streams at high altitude. Unlike annual killifishes it has no drought dormancy. It feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and algae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Andean pupfish?
The Andean pupfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Broad, angular head and no pelvic fins; small high-mountain killifish of the Andes.
Where does the Andean pupfish live?
The Andean pupfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Andes of South America; cold lakes and streams at altitude.
How big does the Andean pupfish get?
The Andean pupfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Andean pupfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Andean pupfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Andean pupfish edible?
The Andean pupfish is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Andean pupfish?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Orestias
More from the family Cyprinodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Andean pupfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Andean pupfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.