Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackfin tilapia (Sarotherodon nigripinnis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
West Africa, in estuaries and brackish coastal waters, sometimes in fresh water at low tide.
Description
Sarotherodon nigripinnis is a West African cichlid that lives mainly in estuaries and brackish water but is also found in fresh water at low tide. The species reaches about 18 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery-grey body with darkened fins. The male is a mouthbrooder that protects the eggs and young in its mouth; during reproduction the fish form temporary pair-bonds and there is no marked colour difference between the sexes. Its diet consists of plant matter, detritus and small plankton. The species is harmless to humans and is eaten locally on a modest scale.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackfin tilapia?
The Blackfin tilapia has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Estuarine tilapia; the male is a mouthbrooder and forms temporary pair bonds.
Where does the Blackfin tilapia live?
The Blackfin tilapia lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa, in estuaries and brackish coastal waters, sometimes in fresh water at low tide.
How big does the Blackfin tilapia get?
The Blackfin tilapia grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Blackfin tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackfin tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackfin tilapia edible?
The Blackfin tilapia is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Sarotherodon
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackfin tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackfin tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.