Kiungululu tilapia
📖 Overview
The maximum reported total length is 19.5 cm ; the maximum standard length of 19 cm is not correct (G.F. Turner, pers. comm.). A maternal mouthbrooder; males defend territories in shallow water, digging a pit among branches and roots of reeds . Like Oreochromis hunteri, this species appears to be confined to a single lake without an outlet . The single population of this species is probably very small and vulnerable and is likely to support a sustainable fishery; the small adult size of the species would suggest minimal potential for aquaculture . Its IUCN conservation status is critically endangered, based on risk of siltation and water level fluctuations due to drought; in addition, populations are likely to have been impacted by the stocking of the lake with Coptodon rendalli and Tilapia sparrmanii, which are both presently abundant .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 14 - 15; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10 - 12; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 8 - 11; Vertebrae: 30. Diagnosis: A relatively small bodied tilapia species; larger individuals were found to have large heads, thin bodies and an overall emaciated appearance, referred to as 'hunger form tilapia' . Length of head 37.6-40.5% of standard length; toothed area of lower pharyngeal with concave sides; median length of bone 1.0-1.24 times its width and 31.6-35.5% of head length; blade 1.2-1.4 times median length of toothed area; length of lower jaw 32.0-39.0% of head length; teeth of jaws in 4 or 5 rows . Females and non-territorial males have grey bodies and 4-5 vertical bars; ventral region lighter; some juveniles very dark overall . Breeding males black with a thin white/orange dorsal margin . : short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Kiungululu tilapia is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
A maternal mouthbrooder; males defend territories in shallow water, digging a pit among branches and roots of reeds .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical; 9°S - 10°S
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Kiungululu tilapia.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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