Aspects of the Reproductive Biology of Tilapia Guineensis (Bleeker, 1862) Under Laboratory Conditions

Aspects of the reproductive biology of Tilapia guineensis was carried out in the laboratory. Twelve ripe male and female brooders of T. guineensis (body length, 12.2 - 12.9cm and weight, 100 - 130g) paired 1 ≅: in triplicate were made to spawn naturally in glass aquaria (60 x 30 x 30cm 3 ). Results show mean fecundity to be 1,269 eggs per female spawner with mean egg size of 1.48mm. Hatching of eggs started 47-48hours after fertilization at a mean temperature of 27.4 0 C. Percent hatch was 74.8% and length of hatchling as 3.8mm. Time of yolk sac absorption was observed to be 4 days with swim-up fry length, 5.7mm and weight, 1.67mg. Parental care was prominently displayed by both parents.