FIRST RECORD OF Tilapia zilli (GEWAIS,1848)IN AL-DELMJ MARSH WEAST AL-DIWANIA CITY MIDDLE OF IRAQ

Abstract

Specimen 21 of Tilapia zilli were collected from AI-Delmj marsh, middle Iraq , which is located between the cities of AI-Diwania (west) and Kut (east), during Marc 2008.Morphometric and mere tic characteristics were measured to classification this species . Total length ranged from 108-138 mm . Body depth percentage to length range from 42.8- 43.35% posterior dorsal fin containing 15 spine and the posterior dorsal fin is separate from the anterior dorsal fin .Gill arch contains 12 gill rakers . Scales on the lateral line ranged from 30-33, mouth has more than one raw of strong bilateral teeth . This is the first time of Tilapia zilli species recording in AL-Delmj marsh .