吉纳非鲫

Overview

Rarely kept, Tilapia guinasana comes from a very restricted Namibian sinkhole lake. Its grazing lifestyle calls for a predominantly plant-based, low-protein diet and a rocky aquarium that offers breeding surfaces as well as shelter.

Distribution & habitat

Lake Guinas is the native locality. Conservation introductions have also been made to Lake Otjikoto and some Namibian reservoirs, and underground river records exist. Guinas formed through the collapse of a subterranean cave and exceeds 100 m in depth. In its clear water, fish live beside rocky walls and defend small ledges for reproduction.

Aquarium setup

Place secure rockwork along the back and sides above a sand bed. Bright lighting encourages algae. Include flat surfaces and open patches of substrate for spawning. Plants are not characteristic of the natural habitat and may well be consumed.

Diet & feeding

Use low-protein foods with a high plant content, such as spirulina flakes, nori, and blanched spinach. Occasional small portions of live or frozen brine shrimp or bloodworms can supplement them. Wild fish graze algae and the organisms living within it from rock surfaces.

Behaviour & compatibility

Conspecifics receive relatively little attention outside breeding, when territorial defense increases. Larger African tetras are possible companions, but a dedicated tank offers better opportunities for successful reproduction.

Sexual dimorphism

Visual sexing is difficult. Examination of the genital papilla by an experienced keeper is more reliable: it is pointed in males and rounded in females.

Breeding

A group of six to eight allows pairs to develop naturally. Condition the fish with high-quality food rich in plant material. Spawning occurs on a flat stone or in an excavated depression, with up to about 200 eggs. The female stays close to the clutch while the male protects the surrounding area.

Before free swimming, the brood may be relocated repeatedly to other pits or rock crevices. At around 10–14 days the young begin swimming freely, escorted and defended by both adults. Family care may continue for weeks. Offer Artemia nauplii as well as plant-based foods to the fry.

Notes

A tiny native range and reduced groundwater input associated with agricultural extraction leave the wild population highly vulnerable. Captive breeding has conservation value, with separate lines kept pure. Distinct color forms occur in the native lake, whereas introduced populations have not developed the same variety.