Fin's Fish Guide
The Blue spotted tilapia (Oreochromis leucostictus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 36 cm.
Originally in Lake Edward, Lake George and Lake Albert and their associated rivers in Central/East Africa.
Description
The blue-spotted tilapia is an African cichlid originally found in Lakes Edward, George and Albert and their associated rivers. The species grows to about 36 cm; males are blackish with white to blue spots, females olive with faint bars. It lives in shallow fresh water down to about 10 m depth and tolerates warm, low-oxygen water. It is a herbivore feeding on phytoplankton and detritus. The species is a maternal mouthbrooder: the female broods the eggs and larvae in her mouth, while males dig spawning pits. Outside its native range the species has been introduced, sometimes with adverse effects.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blue spotted tilapia?
The Blue spotted tilapia has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Maternal mouthbrooder; tolerates warm and oxygen-poor water; males dig spawning pits.
Where does the Blue spotted tilapia live?
The Blue spotted tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Originally in Lake Edward, Lake George and Lake Albert and their associated rivers in Central/East Africa.
How big does the Blue spotted tilapia get?
The Blue spotted tilapia grows to a maximum of about 36 cm.
Is the Blue spotted tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Blue spotted tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blue spotted tilapia edible?
Yes, the Blue spotted tilapia is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Oreochromis
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Blue spotted tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blue spotted tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.