Todd,

We've had several posts questioning the ideal size of Tilapia for stocking in existing ponds with predators. I've taken the "uneducated" position that 2 four inch Tilapia are preferable to 1 eight inch Tilapia because of the reproductive characteristics and a "feeling" that Tilapia predation on initial stocking doesn't seem to be overly severe. I think Texas715, for example, takes the other approach feeling that the 8 inch size is preferable.

What are your thoughts on optimum stocking size for Tilapia as a forage supplement and algae eater in existing predator based ponds? I qualified the question because no doubt if you want Tilapia for personal consumption, the 8 inch stockers will grow to much better size by the end of the growing season.

p.s. Casca, not trying to hijack your thread, but wanting to get more info out to everyone.