[x]

If you have a few seconds just before you download the Guide, we'd really like to know a little more about you so that we can keep you up to date with our campaigns and other activities.

No thanks...
Read our data protection policy
Registered Charity England and Wales No. 1004005 | Scotland No. SC037480
[x]
Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus niloticus)

view larger image

Common name - Tilapia
Scientific name - Oreochromis niloticus niloticus
Rating
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Farmed
Production method Closed recirculation system (RAS) monoculture
Production country Worldwide
Production area All
Summary
Farming tilapia in fully closed recirculation systems avoids all of the negative environmental impacts associated with open water production. Issues such as discharges, escapes, transfer of disease and parasites, habitat damage, water pollution or degradation are prevented in closed system production systems. Tilapia are omnivores, and as such have a low requirement for fishmeal and fish-oil in their diets, making them a net producer of protein and therefore a valuable aquaculture species.
Biology
Tilapia is a generic name used to describe groups of fish called cichlids that are native to Africa. Tilapia are hardy, freshwater fish that tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They inhabit warm ponds, lakes and streams, and reproduce in fresh and brackish water. They mainly feed on phytoplankton, zooplankton and algae. They reach a maximum size of 45cm and a weight of 2kg.
Production Information
Tilapia can be farmed in a number of ways, which can vary according to country and size of production. They can be produced in open systems, using pens submerged in freshwater bodies, or in raceways that are flushed by streams. They can also be produced in semi or fully closed systems such as ponds and recirculating tanks.
Alternatives
(Based on method of production, fish type, and consumer rating: only fish rated 3 and below are included.)
Read what the consumer pages of the Good Fish Guide say about this species.