Meadowlark :

I have seen large bass {4-5 lbs} attack tilapia that size. The attack was so fast that I did not see the forage eaten. One second it was there the next it was gone. I have also had 1 lb. bass and 3/4 lb BG , which I hooked while fishing eaten off the line by large bass. The big bass knew the hooked fish was easy prey and took advantage of the opportunity. I am shocked every time it happens.

I agree with you that tilapia have a relativly good survival rate and are prolific reproducers. I also think that Dave B 's project will work. I think it will work much better if he can protect his new fish for the first 48 hours until they adjust and are aware that there are predators present . I would do this by putting them in at different places with cover or behind a blocking net if possible.

I have had reports from a trusted fisheries biologist { I did not see the event} of a school of 100 4-6 in. tilapia fresh from the hatchery being annihilated by waiting bass in short order. This was however at a place on a large lake where the bass were use to being fed unsuspecting hatchery fish.

What I don't know is status of Dave B's bass population and his existing forage base. If the bass are young {small ,under 3lbs.} he should be ok. If he has a small forage base and many 3+ lb bass { 4-6 per acre} it will be a race to see if the tilapia can reproduce enough to establish a population before they are eaten or grow big enough to avoid predation. Some combination of either will work.

I also don't know if a 3 lb. bass can eat a 1 lb. tilapia but I bet it will try. The ratio of bass eating prey up to 1/3 its size infers that a 3-4 lb. bass could do the job.

This should be interesting to find out what happens.I encourage Dave B to watch and report back. Thanks -- ewest

PS : Whoever destarred Meadowlark has problems . You should be ashamed !