Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellow orestias (Orestias luteus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinodontidae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The yellow orestias is an egg-laying pupfish (Cyprinodontidae) from the Andes of South America, including Lake Titicaca. The species has a stocky body with an upturned mouth and yellowish tints, to which the name refers. It lives in cold, high-altitude lakes, lagoons and streams of the Altiplano. As an omnivore it feeds on small zooplankton, insect larvae, algae and detritus. Unlike many killifishes it is not a seasonal fish. Locally it is a food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow orestias?
The Yellow orestias has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. High-mountain toothcarp of Lake Titicaca and the Altiplano; not a seasonal fish.
Where does the Yellow orestias live?
The Yellow orestias lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Andes mountains of South America; high-altitude lakes and streams.
How big does the Yellow orestias get?
The Yellow orestias grows to a maximum of about 17 cm.
Is the Yellow orestias dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellow orestias is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellow orestias edible?
Yes, the Yellow orestias 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 Yellow orestias?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow orestias is one of 12,519 species in the app.