Blind Cave Tetra

Blind Cave Tetra (Astyanax Mexicanus)

The Blind Cave Tetra is a fascinating freshwater fish species native to the caves of Mexico. They are known for their lack of pigmentation and their unique adaptation to living in complete darkness: they are born without functioning eyes. Despite their lack of vision, these fish are active swimmers and can make an interesting addition to a home aquarium.

Here is what you need to know about this fantastic fish:

Appearance:
Blind Cave Tetras are typically a pale, translucent white or silver color due to their lack of pigmentation. They have a streamlined body shape, with a slightly rounded belly, and grow to around 3 inches in length. Although they have vestigial eyes, they are covered by a layer of skin, rendering them non-functional.

Personality:
Despite their blindness, Blind Cave Tetras are active swimmers that navigate their environment using a keen sense of touch and smell. They are generally peaceful fish but can be a little nippy towards tank mates with long fins. They are schooling fish, and it is recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6 for their social well-being.

Tank Habitat and Care:
Blind Cave Tetras thrive in a dimly-lit aquarium with a minimum size of 20 gallons. It is essential to provide them with hiding spots such as caves and overhangs. They prefer a sandy substrate with smooth rocks and driftwood. Water parameters should be stable, with a pH of 6.5-8.0, a hardness of 5-20 dGH, and a temperature of 68-77°F.

Diet:
Blind Cave Tetras are omnivorous, and their diet should include high-quality flake food, small pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.