Fin's Fish Guide
The Elegant Andean pupfish (Orestias elegans) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The Elegant Andean pupfish is a pupfish relative (Cyprinodontidae) from cold, clear fresh water of Lake Titicaca and adjacent highlands in South America. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, yellow-brown to silvery body with an upturned mouth and, unlike many relatives, no pelvic fins. As a surface-oriented fish it lives in high-altitude lakes, pools and streams and snaps at small zooplankton, insect larvae and algae. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Elegant Andean pupfish?
The Elegant Andean pupfish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Elegant Andean pupfish live?
The Elegant Andean pupfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. South America: Peru
How big does the Elegant Andean pupfish get?
The Elegant Andean pupfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Elegant Andean pupfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Elegant Andean pupfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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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 Elegant Andean pupfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Elegant Andean pupfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.