There are many species of tilapia, and genetic improvements were carried out to obtain better fish species, and the Nile tilapia which has better growth rate was emerged in 1960.
GIFT – tilapia which was genetically improved species from Philippines since about 1980 is still popular and famous due to its advantages such as good growth rate and beautiful color.
Tilapia are hardy fish and can be cultured in fresh water, salt water and, fresh and salty mix water conditions.
Tilapia can survive in temperature between 10°C and 40°C.
Tilapia fish can spawn in the pond and spawn once every 4 to 6 weeks. Therefore, a few tilapias can be grown small scale and it can provide family income and food security.
Growth rate depends on water quality, number of fish in pond, food and nutrition.
Male fish are faster than female 10 to 20 percent and male mono-sex culture can get better yield.