Fin's Fish Guide
The Orestias mulleri is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
Orestias mulleri is a small fish of the family Cyprinodontidae from the high Andes, in Lake Titicaca on the border of Peru and Bolivia. The species reaches only about 4.5 cm and lacks, characteristic of the genus Orestias, the pelvic fins. It inhabits the cold, clear highland water of the lake. The diet consists of small zooplankton, insect larvae and small invertebrates. Locally small Orestias species are eaten together with larger ones under the name 'carachi'. In the aquarium the species is difficult to keep owing to its requirement for cold, oxygen-rich water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orestias mulleri?
The Orestias mulleri has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Small highland fish of Lake Titicaca; lacks pelvic fins.
Where does the Orestias mulleri live?
The Orestias mulleri lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Titicaca in the high mountains of the Andes (Peru/Bolivia).
How big does the Orestias mulleri get?
The Orestias mulleri grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 3 cm.
Is the Orestias mulleri dangerous to humans?
No, the Orestias mulleri is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Orestias mulleri edible?
Yes, the Orestias mulleri is commonly eaten.
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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 Orestias mulleri?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orestias mulleri is one of 12,519 species in the app.