Sarotherodon

Sarotherodon is a genus of cichlid fishes in the family Cichlidae, subfamily Pseudocrenilabrinae, and tribe Oreochromini. The genus comprises several species commonly referred to as tilapia in the aquarium trade and fisheries. Native to freshwater and brackish habitats across Africa and parts of the Middle East, Sarotherodon species occupy rivers, lakes, and coastal wetlands in tropical and subtropical regions and often tolerate a range of salinities.

Members of the genus are typically medium-sized, with a laterally compressed body and a dorsal fin that runs along the back. They are generally omnivorous, feeding on algae, aquatic invertebrates, and detritus. Reproductive strategies among Sarotherodon reflect the diverse cichlid pattern of parental care, with many species practicing mouthbrooding, where eggs are carried in the mouth during incubation and the fry are released when ready to forage.

Ecology and human use: Sarotherodon species contribute to both wild fisheries and aquaculture in Africa and neighboring regions. They are valued for their adaptability to different water conditions and their potential for rapid growth under managed conditions. Examples of species in this genus include Sarotherodon galilaeus and Sarotherodon melanotheron, which occur in various freshwater and brackish environments.

Taxonomy: The genus has undergone revisions as phylogenetic research clarifies relationships within the Oreochromini clade. Some species previously placed in Sarotherodon have been reassigned to other genera such as Oreochromis or Tilapia, reflecting ongoing advances in cichlid systematics.