Como identificar Redbelly Tilapia

Para identificar Redbelly Tilapia (Tilapia zillii), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

compressed

Coloração

Overall silvery-grey to olive-green, often with 7-9 dark vertical bars on the flanks that may fade or intensify depending on mood and environment. The most distinctive feature is the reddish to orange coloration on the belly and lower fins, particularly prominent in breeding males. Dorsal fin has a dark blotch (tilapia spot) at the posterior end of the soft-rayed portion. Caudal fin is typically emarginate to slightly rounded, often with faint barring.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Deep, compressed body, Reddish coloration on the belly and lower fins (especially in breeding males), Dark 'tilapia spot' on the soft-rayed portion of the dorsal fin, 7-9 faint to prominent vertical bars on the flanks, Large, protractile mouth with small, conical teeth

Nadadeira dorsal

Long, continuous dorsal fin with 14-17 spines and 10-13 soft rays. A prominent dark blotch (tilapia spot) is present on the posterior soft-rayed portion.

Nadadeira caudal

Caudal fin is typically emarginate to slightly rounded, often with faint vertical barring.

Nadadeira peitoral

Pectoral fins are relatively short and rounded.

Nadadeiras características

Pelvic fins are thoracic, often with a reddish hue, especially in breeding individuals. Anal fin has 3 spines and 8-10 soft rays, often with a reddish margin.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a deep, laterally compressed body typical of cichlids.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the reddish or orange tint on the belly and lower fins, particularly in mature males. The presence of 7-9 vertical bars on the flanks is also a key indicator.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Spot

   A distinct dark blotch (tilapia spot) on the soft-rayed posterior part of the dorsal fin is a reliable identifying mark.

4. 4

   Mouth and Teeth

   Examine the mouth for small, conical teeth arranged in several rows, characteristic of herbivorous tilapias.

5. 5

   Fin Ray Counts

   For definitive identification, fin ray counts (D: XIV-XVII, 10-13; A: III, 8-10) can be used, though this requires careful examination.

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