Tilapia: Africa’s Native Fish and the World’s Second Most Popular Farmed Seafood
Tilapia is the common name for a group of mostly freshwater fish with nearly 100 species. Native to Africa, tilapia has become the second most farmed fish globally and one of the most traded seafood commodities in the world.
Tilapia were once called the “fish of the Pharaohs.” Ancient Egyptians farmed tilapia more than 3,000 years ago, making it one of the oldest known farmed fish in the world. Its ability to thrive in warm, shallow water made it an early aquaculture success long before modern fish farming.
Eating fish supports health in many ways. Tilapia is a high-protein, low-fat food that provides essential nutrients and is affordable for many families. Historically, tilapia has been a key part of small-scale fishing economies across Africa and is now central to aquaculture and aquaponics.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, tilapia remains vital for food security and income. It is still caught in rivers, lakes, and dams, but farming has expanded rapidly. Tilapia aquaculture production has grown at an average of 20% per year over the past decade, making it the fastest-growing aquaculture sub-sector.
Key Facts About Tilapia
- Tilapia is mild-flavored, firm, and easy to cook by grilling, baking, or frying.
- Native to Africa, now farmed worldwide in freshwater habitats.
- Hardy and adaptable to different water conditions, making it ideal for aquaculture.
- Fast-growing — can reach market size in about six months.
- Often farmed using sustainable practices to reduce pressure on wild fish populations.
- Rich in protein, B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium while being low in fat.
- Popular in African, Asian, and Latin American cuisines.
Recipe: Broiled Tilapia with Orange Sauce
This simple, fresh recipe is a quick way to enjoy tilapia at home.
Ingredients
- 4 medium tilapia fillets
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh dill
Directions
- Combine salt and pepper; sprinkle evenly over tilapia fillets.
- Place on a broiler pan coated with nonstick cooking spray.
- Broil for 11–12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Meanwhile, blend oranges, onion, vinegar, and dill until smooth. Serve sauce over fish with salad or brown rice.
Serve with homemade African-style chutney for extra flavor.
Tilapia farming now generates millions of jobs across Africa. Countries like Egypt, Nigeria, and Ghana are leaders in aquaculture, helping improve food security and reduce dependence on imported fish.
