Longfin tilapia (Oreochromis macrochir)

Scientific name: Oreochromis macrochir Boulenger, 1912

Longfin tilapia (Oreochromis macrochir)

The Longfin tilapia (Oreochromis macrochir) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 18–35°C (64–95°F).

Longfin tilapia care at a glance

Temperature
18–35°C (64–95°F)

Biology

Mating territory having a central volcano-shaped mound with a flat or slightly concave top, surrounded by a ditch and vallum, in contrast to O. mweruensis. Prefers quiet, deep water associated with aquatic vegetation, but has been collected in other habitats as well. Found at temperatures between 18 and 35?C. Has a very low salinity tolerance. Occasionally forms schools, is mainly diurnal. Feeds mostly on detritus, (blue-green) algae and diatoms. Juvenile also accepts small invertebrates and zooplankton, but lose this tendency with age. Maternal mouthbrooder (

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name
Oreochromis macrochir
Family
Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Order
Perciformes (Perch-like fish)
Class
Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length
43.0
Depth range
5–14 m (16–46 ft)
Environment
Freshwater; benthopelagic; depth range 5 - 14 m
Climate
Tropical
Distribution
Africa: Kafue, upper Zambezi, and Congo River systems; introduced elsewhere in Africa and in Hawaiian Islands Also in the Okavango and Ngami region, Cunene basin, Chambezi and Bangweulu region.
Conservation status (IUCN)
Vulnerable (VU) (A3e)
Uses
Fisheries: commercial; aquaculture: commercial; gamefish: yes
Resilience
High, minimum population doubling time less than 15 months (K=0.27-1.0; tm

Sources

Taxonomy, distribution and biology data: FishBase (Froese, R. and D. Pauly, eds.), licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

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