| Astyanax bacalarensis | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Characiformes |
| Family: | Characidae |
| Genus: | Astyanax |
| Species: | A. bacalarensis
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| Binomial name | |
| Astyanax bacalarensis Schmitter-Soto, 2017
| |
Astyanax bacalarensis, sometimes referred to as the Bacalar tetra, is a small species of freshwater fish found in Central and South America. Its scientific and common names both refer to its type locality, Lake Bacalar in Mexico, and it further inhabits freshwater environments like cenotes, streams, and wetlands. Its widespread nature, paired with an omnivorous diet, make it a hardy species.
Before its nomination, A. bacalarensis was considered synonymous with Astyanax aeneus. The silver scales and humeral spot that A. bacalarensis sports are not uncommon features in its genus, but it can be differentiated from congeners by several means. Its fins have some unique markings, like a patch of bright red on the anal fin, and its humeral spot is rectangular or ovoid, instead of triangular or p-shaped in some other Astyanax.
- ^ Schmitter-Soto, J. (2019). "Astyanax bacalarensis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2019: e.T132569524A132572607. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2019-2.RLTS.T132569524A132572607.en. Retrieved 8 May 2023.