Blackchin Tilapia
Sarotherodon melanotheron
An invasive tilapia species native to West Africa that has established populations in Florida waters. Distinguished by its dark chin marking and ability to tolerate varying salinity levels.
Blackchin Tilapia at a glance
- Scientific name
- Sarotherodon melanotheron
- Typical size
- 6-12 inches, 0.5-2 lbs
- Water
- Brackish
- Habitat
- Exotic
- Rarity in the Fishdex™
- Common
Habitat
Found in canals, coastal rivers, and brackish waters throughout South Florida. This invasive species competes with native fish and is typically caught incidentally by anglers targeting other species in freshwater and brackish environments.
Catch one and it is yours
Log a blackchin tilapia through the Cobia Camera and this entry fills in with your photo, your personal best, and the exact conditions on the day. The app also carries the slot and season rules for wherever you are standing.
How the Fishdex™ worksBlackchin Tilapia questions people ask
Blackchin Tilapia is Sarotherodon melanotheron.
A typical blackchin tilapia runs 6-12 inches, 0.5-2 lbs. Cobia records the length and weight of every blackchin tilapia you log and keeps your personal best on its Fishdex entry.
Found in canals, coastal rivers, and brackish waters throughout South Florida. This invasive species competes with native fish and is typically caught incidentally by anglers targeting other species in freshwater and brackish environments. It is a water species, filed under exotic in the Fishdex.
Yes. Log one through the Cobia Camera and this entry fills in with your own photo, your personal best, and the conditions on the day you caught it. The app also carries the slot limits and season dates for wherever you are standing. It is free.
Tomorrow morning starts tonight
Set your home water, pick a drive radius, and wake up to a plan.
Android coming soon
iPhone, iOS 17 or later. Setup takes about a minute.