Fin's Fish Guide
The Kotta tilapia (Coptodon kottae) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Kotta tilapia is a cichlid (Cichlidae) endemic to crater lakes in Cameroon, West Africa. The species has a deep, laterally compressed body. Its diet consists mainly of plants and small particles such as detritus and growth (aufwuchs). Unlike the mouthbrooding cichlids it forms pairs and lays the eggs on a fixed surface, which both parents guard. Owing to its very limited range the species is considered endangered. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kotta tilapia?
The Kotta tilapia has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Substrate-brooding pair former (not a mouthbrooder); endangered crater lake endemic from Cameroon.
Where does the Kotta tilapia live?
The Kotta tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; endemic to crater lakes in Cameroon.
How big does the Kotta tilapia get?
The Kotta tilapia grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Kotta tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Kotta tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Kotta tilapia edible?
The Kotta tilapia is rarely 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 Kotta tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kotta tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.