Author: (Ahl, 1924)
FBname: Kiungululu tilapia
Comments: The maximum reported total length is 19.5 cm (Ref. 2, 118638); the maximum standard length of 19 cm (Ref. 4967) is not correct (G.F. Turner, pers. comm.). A maternal mouthbrooder; males defend territories in shallow water, digging a pit among branches and roots of reeds (Ref. 118638). Like <i>Oreochromis hunteri</i>, this species appears to be confined to a single lake without an outlet (Ref. 4967). The single population of this species is probably very small and vulnerable and is likely to support a sustainable fishery; the small adult size of the species would suggest minimal potential for aquaculture (Ref. 118638). Its IUCN conservation status is critically endangered, based on risk of siltation and water level fluctuations due to drought; in addition, populations are likely to have been impacted by the stocking of the lake with <i>Coptodon rendalli</i> and <i>Tilapia sparrmanii</i>, which are both presently abundant (Ref. 118638).