Fin's Fish Guide
The Blind cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Characidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Central and North America; streams, rivers, springs and caves from Mexico to the southern US.
Description
The Mexican tetra is a characin of the family Characidae from Central and North America. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, silvery body. Famous is its blind cave form: populations living in dark caves have lost their eyes and pigment over evolutionary time and orient by other senses, while the surface form has normal eyes. It inhabits rocky and sandy pools of creeks, rivers and springs. As an omnivore it eats small invertebrates, plant matter and detritus. The Mexican tetra is a widely used research animal and popular aquarium fish. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blind cavefish?
The Blind cavefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Famous blind cave form without eyes or pigment alongside a normal surface form.
Where does the Blind cavefish live?
The Blind cavefish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central and North America; streams, rivers, springs and caves from Mexico to the southern US.
How big does the Blind cavefish get?
The Blind cavefish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 8 cm.
Is the Blind cavefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blind cavefish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blind cavefish edible?
The Blind cavefish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Astyanax
More from the family Characidae
Want the complete picture on the Blind cavefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blind cavefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.