Spotted Tilapia
NameSpotted Tilapia
Scientific NamePelmatolapia mariae
Common NamesSpotted Tilapia, Black Tilapia, Spotted Mangrove Tilapia
FamilyCichlidae
OriginWest Africa
Temperamentaggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range7.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesLarge Plecos, Green Terror Cichlid (in very large tanks), Jack Dempsey Cichlid (in very large tanks)
Description
The Spotted Tilapia is a large, robust cichlid characterized by its dark spots or vertical bars on a greenish-brown body. Native to West Africa, this species is highly territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding. It requires a spacious aquarium and is best kept in a species-only tank or with very carefully selected, equally robust tankmates.
