Kariba Tilapia
Oreochromis mortimeri
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oreochromis_mortimeri
Overview
Oreochromis mortimeri, the Kariba tilapia or kurper bream, is a species of cichlid, formerly classified as a Tilapiine cichlid but now placed in the genus Oreochromis, the type genus of the tribe Oreochromini of the subfamily Pseudocrenilabrinae. It is found in the rivers of south central Africa especially the middle Zambezi where it is endangered by the spread of invasive congener Oreochromis niloticus.
Oreochromis mortimeri faces severe population decline primarily due to hybridization with introduced tilapia species, particularly O. niloticus, which has led to genetic pollution of native stocks. Overfishing and habitat degradation from agricultural runoff and sedimentation have further reduced remaining populations. The species' restricted range in specific river systems makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats and environmental changes.
Habitat
Oreochromis mortimeri inhabits freshwater river systems and associated floodplains in the upper Zambezi River basin. The species prefers shallow, vegetated areas with sandy or muddy substrates where it can establish breeding territories and feed on algae and detritus.
Other threatened species in CICHLIDAE
Threatened in Angola
Frequently asked questions
Why is Kariba Tilapia classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Kariba Tilapia live?
What are the main threats to Kariba Tilapia?
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