Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded tilapia (Tilapia sparrmanii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Fresh water of southern and central Africa, in lakes, rivers, ponds and swamps with abundant aquatic plants; introduced elsewhere.
Description
The banded tilapia is a robust cichlid of the family Cichlidae reaching about 24 cm. The deep, green-yellow body bears several dark cross-bands that the animal can pale or intensify with mood. Unlike many tilapias it is not a mouthbrooder but a substrate brooder: the pair cleans a nest and both parents guard the eggs and young together. The species comes from the fresh water of southern and central Africa and lives in lakes, rivers, ponds and swamps with abundant water plants. As an omnivore it eats water plants, algae, insects and small invertebrates. It is hardy and adaptable and is stocked elsewhere for fish farming and angling, where it can become locally invasive.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded tilapia?
The Banded tilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Sturdy cichlid with a few dark vertical bars; a substrate brooder in which both parents guard the eggs and the juveniles.
Where does the Banded tilapia live?
The Banded tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of southern and central Africa, in lakes, rivers, ponds and swamps with abundant aquatic plants; introduced elsewhere.
How big does the Banded tilapia get?
The Banded tilapia grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Banded tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded tilapia edible?
Yes, the Banded tilapia is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Tilapia
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.