Blind Cave Fish- Astyanax jordani

 
A true hidden gem....

Welcome to your virtual discovery of the Blind Cave Fish (Astyanax jordani), a species that is a single puzzle piece to a genus with over 107 recognized species comprising it (Ornelas-Garcia, 2008). Being a member of one of the most diverse genera, this cave dwelling fish and its relatives continue to evolve and surprise us with their mysterious lifestyle.

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The Astyanax jordani is a relatively small fish that may give off a rather boring first impression. However, despite its somewhat dull appearance, this fish impresses many with its fascinating evolutionary path. This species of fish has evolved to inhabit caves, which has led to the loss of coloration and pigmentation, and even more remarkably, the loss of functioning eyes. Compared to its size, the Astyanax jordani has relatively large and strong teeth. Both male and femal possess a small dorsal fin and breeding males are owners to an anal fin that house tiny hooks.

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This dark-dwelling species helps comprise the widest distribution of American characids being found from the Neoartic to the Neotropics. Although this genus has the capacity to adapt to habitats virtually around the globe, the Astyanax jordani chooses to remain a member of the stygofauna tropical clan, dwelling in freshwater caves in Mexico and areas close by (Ornelas-Garcia 2008).

Included throughout this site we will be discussing some of the latest and most interesting topics surrounding this evolved species. Please continue to read-on about this mysterious fish and it's humble abode, dietary habits, morphology, biological and taxonomic interactions with other species, and reproduction activity. If these links don't end up satisfying your craving for information please feel free to check out some more interesting tid-bits about our fishy friend.

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