Animal's Details

Scientific Name
Oreochromis mossambicus
Category
Pisces
Created on Date
2024-10-10 20:50:30
Common Name
Mozambique tilapia
Synonym(s)
Nile perch
Family
Cichlidae
Status
Live
Description

Tilapia is a popular freshwater fish belonging to several genera, primarily Oreochromis, Tilapia, and Sarotherodon. Here\\\'s a detailed overview categorized by various aspects:

1. Taxonomy

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Actinopterygii
  • Order: Cichliformes
  • Family: Cichlidae
  • Genera: Oreochromis, Tilapia, Sarotherodon

2. Species

Several species of tilapia are commonly cultivated and consumed:

  • Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): The most widely farmed species.
  • Mozambique Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus): Known for its adaptability.
  • Blue Tilapia (Oreochromis aureus): Popular in aquaculture due to its hardiness.
  • Black Tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron): Common in West Africa.

3. Habitat

  • Distribution: Native to Africa and the Middle East but widely introduced around the world.
  • Environment: Prefers warm, shallow waters like lakes, rivers, and ponds. Thrives in temperatures between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

4. Diet

  • Feeding Habits: Omnivorous; feeds on algae, plant matter, small invertebrates, and detritus.
  • Aquaculture Feeding: In farming, tilapia are often fed a mix of plant-based feed and formulated pellets.

5. Reproduction

  • Breeding: Tilapia are mouthbrooders, where females carry fertilized eggs in their mouths until they hatch.
  • Spawning: Can reproduce multiple times a year under optimal conditions.

6. Aquaculture

  • Farming: Tilapia is one of the most cultivated fish globally, valued for its fast growth and ability to thrive in varied conditions.
  • Sustainability: Considered a sustainable choice when farmed responsibly, with many practices minimizing environmental impact.