Blind Cave Tetra
Tetras
Pickup available at 28 Wellesley Road Napier South
Usually ready in 4 hours
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
The Blind Cave Tetra (Astyanax mexicanus) is a unique freshwater fish adapted to life in complete darkness. Over generations, this species has lost its eyesight and pigmentation, resulting in a pale pink to white body and highly developed sensory systems.
Blind Cave Tetras are active, hardy, and fascinating to observe. They rely on lateral line sensitivity rather than sight, making them confident swimmers even in low-light aquariums. Their resilience and unusual biology make them a popular choice for aquarists looking for something different.
Physical Characteristics
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Adult Size: Approximately 7–9 cm (3–3.5 inches)
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Coloration: Pale pink to white, semi-translucent
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Body Shape: Deep-bodied tetra profile
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Eyes: Absent or vestigial
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Sexual Dimorphism:
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Females are typically rounder, especially when mature
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Males are slightly slimmer
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Behaviour & Temperament
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Temperament: Semi-peaceful
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Tank Level: Mid to lower levels
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Schooling Behaviour: Should be kept in groups of 6 or more
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Activity Level: Active, especially during feeding
Suitable Tank Mates
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Medium-sized tetras
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Corydoras catfish
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Bristlenose plecos
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Peaceful barbs
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Other robust community fish
Avoid:
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Very small or timid fish
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Long-finned species
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Aggressive or territorial fish
Breeding Information
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Spawning Type: Egg scatterer
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Breeding Setup:
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Slightly cooler water changes to trigger spawning
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Fine-leaved plants or spawning mops
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Parental Care: None
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Notes: Adults may eat eggs; separation required for breeding
Special Considerations
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May nip fins if kept in small groups
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Relies on scent and vibration when feeding
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Performs best with regular feeding schedules
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Prefers open swimming space rather than heavy planting
Aquarium Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 90–120 litres
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Water Temperature: 20–26°C
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pH Range: 6.5–8.0
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Water Hardness: 5–20 dGH
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Decor: Driftwood, shaded areas
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Filtration: Moderate, well-maintained
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Lighting: Moderate; plants help diffuse brightness
Diet & Feeding
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Diet Type: Omnivore
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Recommended Foods:
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Frozen foods such as daphnia and brine shrimp
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Occasional live foods for conditioning
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Feeding Frequency: Once or twice daily in small portions
We aim to provide up to date product information including ingredients, size and colour specifications, packaging and product features, as provided to us by the product manufacturer. As product details change from time to time, this information is intended as a guide only and some delay may occur in the updating of our listing. Product images are indicative of the appearance and the product delivered may vary slightly from the product image show. When precise information is important, we recommend that you read the label on the products you purchase or contact the manufacturer of the product.
