Narrow-mouthed Natron tilapia
📖 Overview
It inhabits the springs and some spring-fed creeks near the southern and south-eastern shores of Lake Natron . It co-occurs with Alcolapia alcalicus and Alcolapia latilabris . Observed to nibble at stones and gravel, probably taking mainly algae for food; omnivorous, taking insects from the water surface as well . A maternal mouthbrooder: males defend spawning territories among rocks in shallow water . Potential as an aquarium fish .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 13 - 14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9 - 12; Anal spines: 3 - 4; Anal soft rays: 9 - 11. Diagnosis: A very small slender species with a narrow ventrally-placed mouth . Mature males have dark-edged dorsal and anal fins, iridescent blue-white spots on flanks, white lower lips, and a spotted caudal fin; male breeding dress shows geographic variation, with males of some populations having yellow throats and white bellies, while others are a fiery orange underneath . Females and non-territorial males are sandy-coloured, paler ventrally, sometimes with faint vertical bars .: elongated.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Narrow-mouthed Natron tilapia is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
A maternal mouthbrooder: males defend spawning territories among rocks in shallow water . Females carry eggs and larvae in their mouths .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical known only from the catchment of Lake Natron in Tanzania (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Narrow-mouthed Natron tilapia.
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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