Fin's Fish Guide
The West coast tilapia (Sarotherodon caudomarginatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 16 cm.
West Africa; rivers, lagoons and estuaries of the coastal plains, also slightly brackish.
Description
The west coast tilapia is an African cichlid from the coastal lowlands of West Africa. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, silvery body. It inhabits rivers, lagoons and estuaries, also in slightly brackish water. With its downward-facing mouth it sifts the bottom for detritus, algae, growth and small invertebrates. Species of the genus Sarotherodon are mouthbrooders in which often the male or both parents carry the brood in the mouth, unlike the predominantly maternal mouthbrooding tilapias. The west coast tilapia is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the West coast tilapia?
The West coast tilapia has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Bottom-sifting cichlid; Sarotherodon species are mouthbrooders in which the male often carries the brood.
Where does the West coast tilapia live?
The West coast tilapia lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West Africa; rivers, lagoons and estuaries of the coastal plains, also slightly brackish.
How big does the West coast tilapia get?
The West coast tilapia grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the West coast tilapia dangerous to humans?
No, the West coast tilapia is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the West coast tilapia edible?
Yes, the West coast tilapia is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sarotherodon
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the West coast tilapia?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the West coast tilapia is one of 12,519 species in the app.