Fin's Fish Guide
The Balon's tilapia (Tilapia baloni) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
Balon's tilapia is a cichlid (Cichlidae) from rivers, swamps and floodplains of southern Africa, including the Okavango and the Zambezi. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, green-brown body with dark crossbars. As a bottom-oriented omnivore it grazes water plants, algae and detritus and snaps small invertebrates. It is a caring parental brooder that makes a nest pit and guards the young. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Balon's tilapia?
The Balon's tilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Balon's tilapia live?
The Balon's tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Africa: Zambia
How big does the Balon's tilapia get?
The Balon's tilapia grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Balon's tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Balon's tilapia is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Tilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Balon's tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Balon's tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.