Morphological and genetic variation in Tilapia guineensis in West African coastal waters: A mini review

Abstract

Tilapia guineensis, a typical estuarine cichlid species in the West Coast of Africa, is an important fish species in view of its immense contribution to the need of many African nations in terms of nutrition, growth and development. Knowledge of how genetically diverse and the genetic structure of T. guineensis especially with regard to the variation in the genetic constitution of T. guineensis populations in this region will be crucial for improving the fish through rational-breeding, proper management, aquaculture production, and stock conservation. Keeping in view the significance of genetic diversity in fish species, report of studies on T. guineensis genetic diversity in West Africa was reviewed. Morphological and molecular techniques were used to assess genetic diversity of this species for breeding and conservation purposes. We hereby report the extent and pattern of variation in genetic constitution of T. guineensis populations found in some West African countries including Nigeria. Keywords: Africa, Tilapia guineensis, Morphological, Genetic diversity, Coastal rivers