How to Care for Zebra Tilapia

The zebra tilapia (Buttikoferi cichlid) is native to river systems in Western Africa. The black-and-white striped zebra pattern gives this fish its common name. The stripes tend to fade as the fish ages. Zebra tilapia are popular freshwater aquarium fish due to their interesting, lively behavior. They are a long-lived fish, often living more than 10 years in a large, well-kept aquarium.

Things You'll Need

  • Fish food, cichlid food, various insects, vegetables
  • Thermometer
  • 75-gallon fish tank
  • Rocks or aquarium decor
  • Aquarium testing kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your zebra tilapia in a tank by itself, or as part of a pair. This is a very aggressive cichlid, and will attack other fish.

    • 2

      Feed your zebra tilapia a varied diet including fish flakes, cichlid food, brine shrimp, and tubifex or bloodworms. They will even enjoy small servings of cooked vegetables. Just drop the veggies into the tank.

    • 3

      Monitor water temperature, which should be between 74 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH should be in the alkaline range, from 7.8 to 8.5.

    • 4

      Provide a large tank for the zebra tilapia; it can grow up to 16 inches in length. A 75-gallon tank is the minimum recommended size. These fish like to have hiding places, so provide plenty of rocks or other aquarium structures to allow the fish to feel secure.

    • 5

      Watch for signs of disease in your zebra tilapia. Symptoms can include white patches on the head and body, appetite or weight loss, sores or ulcers on the fish's body, rapid breathing or fins clamped tightly to the body, or roughness on the scales. Consult an aquarium expert at your local fish store for best treatment for any disease.

    • 6

      Perform regular water changes, replacing 15 percent to 25 percent of the water each time. Use an aquarium testing kit to monitor levels in the water of ammonia and nitrates, which can be potentially harmful to your fish's health. You may have to change the water more often if these levels are too high.