Fin's Fish Guide
The Walter's tilapia (Coptodon walteri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Description
Walter's tilapia is an endangered cichlid from West Africa. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed body typical of tilapias. It lives in rivers and is mainly a herbivore, but also takes small amounts of insects. The species forms pairs and is a biparental open-substrate spawner: both parents dig large, deep pits on the river bottom in which the eggs are laid and guarded. Owing to a restricted range and threats to its habitat the species is listed as Endangered (EN). Walter's tilapia is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Walter's tilapia?
The Walter's tilapia has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Endangered tilapia; biparental pair that digs large, deep pits in the river bottom.
Where does the Walter's tilapia live?
The Walter's tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; rivers with a limited distribution range.
How big does the Walter's tilapia get?
The Walter's tilapia grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Walter's tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the Walter's tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Walter's tilapia edible?
The Walter's tilapia is rarely eaten.
More photos
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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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Walter's tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.