A RARE fish listed as "critically endangered" in the Commonwealth country of its origin is thriving in a new home . . . in Bolton.

The town's aquarium is thought to be the only one in the country now displaying a collection of this particular endangered species from Namibia. It is the Lake Guinas Dwarf Kurper Tilapia Guinasana -- a fish with a grand name that belies its small size.

It is found naturally in only one place in the world, Lake Guinas, a small limestone sinkhole lake in the southern African country of Namibia.

Because it is endangered, captive groups are being cared for in zoos and aquariums throughout the world for conservation purposes.

Bolton Aquarium has set up the fish tank to resemble the natural habitat, and once the fish settle in, it is hoped breeding will take place.

Pete Liptrot, Bolton Aquarist said: "We are very pleased to be the only public aquarium in the UK with this species on display. The fish have settled in to their new surroundings extremely well, and are already showing

signs of breeding."

Behind the scenes tours of the Aquarium will take place from August 28 to 30 as part of the Bolton Festival.