Fin's Fish Guide
The Tschudi's Andean pupfish (Orestias tschudii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
Tschudi's Andean pupfish is a pupfish from the Lake Titicaca basin in the Andes of Peru and Bolivia. The species grows to about 20 cm and has an elongate body lacking pelvic fins, characteristic of the Andean pupfishes. It lives in cold, clear highland water and feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae and invertebrates. It is a local food fish. The fish is harmless to humans; through introduced fish and fishing the Titicaca species are under pressure.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tschudi's Andean pupfish?
The Tschudi's Andean pupfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small Andean highland carp without pelvic fins; local food fish
Where does the Tschudi's Andean pupfish live?
The Tschudi's Andean pupfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Lake Titicaca basin
How big does the Tschudi's Andean pupfish get?
The Tschudi's Andean pupfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Tschudi's Andean pupfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tschudi's 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.
Is the Tschudi's Andean pupfish edible?
Yes, the Tschudi's Andean pupfish 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 Tschudi's Andean pupfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tschudi's Andean pupfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.