Present in lakes George (Ref. 51938), Victoria (widespread), Edward (in shallow water; also in the Kazinga channel), Albert (inshore and in open water) and Kyoga (in open waters; possibly no longer present Ref. 58618), Semliki River, Victoria Nile, Murchinson and Albert Niles (Ref. 4903). Most commonly caught species in Lake Edward (Ref. 51885). Catch percentages in Lake Edward increased from 20% in 1950 to 55% in 1990 (Ref. 51885). Used as a predator in aquaculture projects (Ref. 38089). Reported from Lake Nabugabo (Ref. 4903) but possibly no longer present (Ref. 56070).