Nile Perch
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
An important food fish in many African rivers. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
One of the world's 100-worst invasive species, the Nile Perch is also much sought after as a food fish in Africa, where it is a prize catch for sportsfishermen.
After its introduction into Lake Victoria in the Rift Valley as a would-be food fish in the 1950s, the Nile Perch has single-handedly brought about the extinction of an estimated 250 species of endemic cichlids.
In some waters, the Nile Perch itself is threatened by over harvesting.
It is reported to reach weights of 200 kg (441 lbs.).
Family: Latidae
Other common name(s):
- African Snook
- Victoria Perch
- Capitaine
Native range:
Maximum length: 200 cm (79 in)
Water: Freshwater 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Notes
Darwin's Nightmare, a controversial documentary film by Hubert Sauper, depicts the tragic aftermath of the introduction of Nile Perch into Lake Victoria. According to the filmmakers, this species has brought wealth to exporters and destitution to local fisherfolk.
- See Wikipedia
Photo Credits: JJPhoto.dk
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Common name
Nile Perch +, African Snook +, Victoria Perch +, and Capitaine +
Family
Latidae +
Genus
Lates +
Image credit
JJ +
Maximum length
79 in +
Native range
Africa +, Nile River +, Chad River Basin +, Senegal +, Volta River +, and Congo River +
Specific name
niloticus +
Water max temp
301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) +
Water min temp
297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) +
Water type
Freshwater +