Tilapia are great, but don't over exaggerate their reproduction numbers and they die around 52 degrees. In existing ponds you need to stock 10 lbs. per acre to succeed, after the water temps are safely in the 60�s. If you have the opportunity, threadfin shad appear to be just as beneficial in my pond�plus, they they spawn earlier and don�t expire until it 10 degrees cooler. With that being said, I will restock tilapia annually, but it�s not cheap�threadfins could save you $100�s, they don�t always die, and reduce blue green algae as well...both species combined create phenominal growth for LMB, HSB, & CC from my experience. The best part about Tilapia is that they don't overload the biomass...each Fall, the dying fish are devoured by the predators who need the rich protein to overwinter. I'm convinced that the leading edge pond owner will have many stories & photos to share in the near future. A die off is beneficial for Tilapia due to their size...not so for the threadfin. What a combination !
