Nile Tilapia Oreochromis niloticus

The Nile Tilapia is one of the most widespread cichlids and freshwater fish in Africa, native not only to the Nile region but to most of the northern half of Africa and to the Near East.

The tilapia can reach 60cm (2 feet) in length. They are grey, or brownish, with faint dark bars and a vertically-striped tail. The fins and tail of males turn red when breeding.

It is a popular local food fish in its native regions, particularly for lower-income populations.

The fish in this (overcrowded) lake seem to be suffering a lack of oxygen in the water since they are congregating at the edges and on the surface.

The eggs and hatchlings are mooth-brooded by the mother. The tiny hatchlings will return to her large mouth in times of perceived danger.

Nile Tilapia fry.