Mexican Tetra
Astyanax jordani
Size: Up to 10 cm.
Lifespan: 3-5 years.
Food: Insects, crustaceans and worms.
The eyes disappear after a couple of weeks
In underground caves in Mexico, there are groups of totally blind fish. They are born with functioning eyes but their eyes disappear when the fish are only a few weeks old.
Mexican tetra have no dark pigment because they are never exposed to daylight. That is why they are slightly transparent and a pale pink colour.
They live in schools in calm areas of running water.
Photo: hen-Hung-Jou-CC-BY-NC-SA
Distribution worldwide
Northeastern Mexico.
White marking = Distribution
Threat based on the Red List
Trade regulations
CITES: Not listed.