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The Spotted Tilapia

Spotted Tilapia is a plant-feeding African cichlid with shared parental care. It uses both still and flowing water and can consume some animal food.

Range and Identity

The retained name Tilapia mariae corresponds to Pelmatolapia mariae in the checked source. Native records involve West and Central African coastal lagoons and lower rivers, with geographic gaps in the distribution. Introduced populations should retain their separate history.

Habitat and Behavior

The fish uses rocky, muddy and sandy habitats in both flowing and still water. Plants and algae are preferred foods, although insects and shrimp can also be eaten. A mixed diet is more accurate than describing the species as incapable of taking animal food.

Food and Life History

Published upper lengths include 32.3 centimeters standard length and 39.4 centimeters total length; the conventions differ. The compiled mass reference is 1.4 kilograms. Parents prepare a surface on logs, leaves or other material and continue guarding after the eggs hatch.

Field Note

Keep both length conventions visible when comparing measurements. An upper standard length and an upper total length should not be treated as conflicting measurements of the same portion of the body.

All Lakes With Spotted Tilapia

Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Spotted Tilapia records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.

Showing 1–2 of 2 lakes · Page 1 of 1

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