Seafood
Tilapia - U.S.
Tilapia require little fishmeal and fish oil in their feed. Most U.S. tilapia farms use low-risk re-circulating systems, which produce less pollution and minimize escapes compared to most foreign tilapia farms. Because tilapia are aggressive, non-native species, escapes that do occur contribute to the decline of freshwater fish populations.
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Tilapia - Asia
Tilapia are commonly farmed in Asia, particularly in China, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand. China produces about half of global Tilapia production, with the majority exported to the United States. Most Tilapia farmed in Asia are grown in net cages, which can allow fish to escape and compete with native species. In China, polyculture with carp and rice is common. Tilapia are generally farmed using a moderate amount of fishmeal and oil in their diet.
Learn MoreTilapia - Central and South America
Central and South American countries farm Tilapia in many different systems, including intensive (e.g. floating cages and raceways), semi-intensive (e.g. irrigation channels and ponds) and extensive systems (e.g. earthen ponds). Polyculture is common, particularly with white shrimp in an effort to reduce shrimp disease. Several Central and South American countries support the growth of aquaculture to promote employment and industry in rural areas, and as an alternative to fishing wild fish populations. Tilapia are farmed on diets containing moderate amounts of fish meal and oil.
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