Mozambique Tilapia
Mozambique Tilapia Fingerlings – Resilient Fish for Dams, Ponds & Brackish Water
At Zeekoevalley Farms, we breed and supply Mozambique Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), one of the hardiest and most trusted tilapia species in South Africa. Often the first choice when someone says “tilapia/kurper,” these fish stand out for their resilience, tolerance of challenging water conditions and adaptability in farm dams, aquaponics and rural ponds.
Why Choose Mozambique Tilapia?
Built for Tough Conditions
Mozambique Tilapia thrive where other fish struggle. They are known for high tolerance to:
- Elevated salinity (brackish water)
- Low dissolved oxygen
- Fluctuating water quality and temperature
Ideal for: - Farm dams with minimal turnover
- Rural tanks or seasonal ponds
- Brackish or slightly salty systems
Omnivorous Feeders with Flexible Diet
Unlike strict herbivores, Mozambique Tilapia will happily eat:
- Algae and aquatic plants
- Insects and small invertebrates
- Floating pellets or kitchen scraps
This flexibility means lower input costs for farmers and greater survival in low-maintenance systems.
Moderate Growth, Exceptional Survivors
While their growth rate may be slower than certain commercial tilapias, Mozambique Tilapia compensate through survival. Typical size at maturity:
- Length: up to 30-35 cm
- Weight: 700 g to 1.2 kg (depending on environment & feeding)
They deliver reliable performance in systems where mortality is a major concern.
Edible, Farm-Friendly Meat
They produce firm, white-fleshed, mild-flavoured meat — ideal for:
- Home cooking and braais
- Local food security initiatives
- Schools, rural cooperatives and community ponds
Features of Zeekoevalley Mozambique Tilapia Fingerlings
- Size: 2-6 cm fingerlings
- Raised in natural, well-managed outdoor systems
- Stock hardened for outdoor stocking
- Available in small or large quantities
Stocking & Farming Tips
- Stocking density: for dams ~1-2 fish/m²
- Water temperature: optimal ~22-28 °C, but they survive lower temperatures better than many tilapias
- Feeding: balanced pellet + natural feeding; consider aquatic weeds/insects in rural ponds
- Monitoring: watch for overpopulation and water quality decline — thin stock if needed
Want to Mix with Other Species?
Mozambique Tilapia belong to the genus Oreochromis. They can hybridise with other Oreochromis species (e.g., Nile Tilapia, Blue Tilapia).
However, they cannot hybridise with true Tilapia species such as Banded Tilapia (Tilapia sparrmanii) or Redbreast Tilapia (Tilapia rendalli).
If you want a multi-species pond with zero hybrid risk, Mozambique + Banded + Redbreast is a safe and balanced mix.
Order Now
Consult our shop for current availability (2–6 cm fingerlings).
Prefer a small home pack or a bulk order for your dam — we’ve got you covered.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Oreochromis mossambicus
- Max Size: ~35 cm / 1.2 kg
- Feeding Type: Omnivore
- Hardiness: Very high
- Hybrid Risk with: Other Oreochromis (Yes) • True Tilapia (No)