Fin's Fish Guide
The Saline tilapia (Oreochromis salinicola) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The saline tilapia is a cichlid from southern Africa, adapted to warm, saline and brackish inland waters such as salt pans and hypersaline pools. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, silver-grey body. It tolerates extreme salinities and temperatures and grazes mainly algae and plant matter, supplemented with detritus. Like other Oreochromis it is a mouthbrooder. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Saline tilapia?
The Saline tilapia has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Tolerates extreme salinities; mouthbrooder
Where does the Saline tilapia live?
The Saline tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa
How big does the Saline tilapia get?
The Saline tilapia grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Saline tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Saline 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 Saline tilapia edible?
The Saline tilapia is rarely 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 Saline tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Saline tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.