Order Perciformes Higher classification Tilapia | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Heterotilapia buttikoferi Rank Species | |
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Similar Cichlid, Tilapia, Green terror, Parachromis managuensis, Heterotilapia | ||
Heterotilapia buttikoferi, also known as the zebra tilapia, is a West African species of cichlid.
Contents
Description
H. buttikoferi is a large cichlid, capable of growing up to 30.8 cm (12.1 in) in standard length. Body is typically yellow or white with black stripes which can vary from very light to near black depending on the mood of the fish. The vertical black bars are broader than the lighter interspaces. Their stripes tend to fade as they age.
Distribution and habitat
This species is native to Guinea-Bissau and Liberia in West Africa. These freshwater fish tend to live in coastal rivers and streams. People have imported and bred them throughout the world for both aquatic and food purposes.
H. buttikoferi is alien species in Thailand, has been introduced for use as a aquarium fish.
