mozambique tilapia
| Scientific name | Oreochromis mossambicus |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Peters |
| Year of description | 1852 |
| IUCN category | VU |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Oreochromis |
Introduction
Oreochromis mossambicus, commonly known as mozambique tilapia, is a fresh water fish from the Africa.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size35 cm
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Maximum size40 cm
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Longevity11 year
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Average size35 cm
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Maximum size40 cm
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Longevity11 year
How to recognize the mozambique tilapia ?
The mozambique tilapia measures around 35 cm. The dominant males can however reach 40 cm. This fish is bicolore with a predominantly argent body.
Sexual dimorphism
The adult male is bigger than the female.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietomnivorous
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Sociabilityliving in a group or alone
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territorialYes
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Way of livingdiurnal
The mozambique tilapia hunts in the stalk and is one of the predators of its biotope. Opportunistic, it does not hesitate to attack any smaller animal nearby.
The mozambique tilapia is a fish living in a group or alone naturally found at mid-depth and near the bottom. This species is omnivorous .
The mozambique tilapia is a territorial animal that does not tolerate any incursions into its living area. It is particularly virulent against other territorial species and it can provoke heated fights. Relationships between conspecifics are also hectic, with each seeking to secure its place. Parrying or even sustained fighting can occur between dominant males.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare incubateur buccal
The mozambique tilapia is a fish ovipare incubateur buccal. This fish protects its eggs from nearby predators.
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Where to find it?
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature17 - 35 °C
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pH (acidity)6 - 8.5
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FlowSlow and Stagnant
Biotope presentation
The mozambique tilapia is most often found at a depth between 1m and 12m. However, it is not impossible to find this species at other depths. This animal evolves in areas characterized by a strong presence of vegetation (aquatic and marsh plants, decaying organic matter, roots...).
Fishkeeping
Not recommended
We do not recommend keeping this species in an aquarium. It has unpredictable needs which, if not met, generate significant stress, potentially leading to a shorter life expectancy, an interruption of its growth or the development of pathogens.
To go further
Species of the same family
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
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Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Where to see this species?
Tags
Species of the same family
Species of the same biotope
Scientific partners