What do tilapia fish eat?

Tilapia are omnivorous fish, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet varies depending on their age and availability of food.

Here's a breakdown of their typical diet:

In the wild:

* Algae: A major food source, especially for younger tilapia.

* Aquatic plants: They eat leaves, stems, and roots of plants found in their habitat.

* Insects: They will readily eat various insects that fall into the water.

* Zooplankton: Tiny animals found in the water, especially for juvenile tilapia.

* Small fish: Older tilapia can sometimes prey on smaller fish.

* Detritus: Decaying organic matter found at the bottom of their habitat.

In aquaculture:

* Commercial feed: This is the most common food source in fish farms. It is a balanced diet containing protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

* Supplements: In some cases, fish farmers may add additional ingredients like algae, vegetables, or insect larvae.

What they don't eat:

* Meat: While they are omnivores, they don't typically eat meat like mammals or birds.

Overall, tilapia are opportunistic feeders, and they will eat whatever is available and easily accessible in their environment. They play a significant role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by consuming a wide range of food sources.