Colorful Exposed Tilapia Fish Nests At The Salton Sea Stock Photography

As the water level in the Salton Sea recedes, previously underwater fish nests like these are becoming exposed. Spawning occurs when the water temperature exceeds 68° F. Males dig large circular nests with their mouths in shallow water over a sandy bottom. The male swims out to a passing female and leads her to the nest where courtship occurs; female lays eggs and immediately takes into mouth after male fertilizes, after which she swims off, possibly to mate with another male. The males continue to guard nests and may spawn again with another female. I believe a combination of algae, bacteria, and possibly minerals are what cause the interesting mix of colors in the water here.