Fin's Fish Guide
The Fusiform tilapia (Coptodon fusiforme) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The fusiform tilapia is a small cichlid from fresh water of West Africa. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, flattened body adapted to life in flowing and still coastal water. It lives in rivers, pools and lagoons and grazes algae, aufwuchs and plant matter, supplemented with small invertebrates. As a caring parental fish it guards the eggs laid on stone and the young. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fusiform tilapia?
The Fusiform tilapia has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a plain pattern. Flat body; algae-grazing, brood-caring coastal cichlid
Where does the Fusiform tilapia live?
The Fusiform tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa
How big does the Fusiform tilapia get?
The Fusiform tilapia grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Fusiform tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Fusiform 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.
Is the Fusiform tilapia edible?
The Fusiform tilapia is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Coptodon
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Fusiform tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fusiform tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.