Widespread and abundant in Florida; found in fertile lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and canals. It is tolerant of saltwater and found in some near shore marine habitats, such as Tampa Bay.

Is tilapia caught in Florida?

Tilapia are non-native to Florida and are often characterized as an “introduced” or “invasive” species. Invasive species, like tilapia, cause numerous problems for native populations.

What states have tilapia?

In the United States, tilapia are found in much of the south, especially Florida and Texas, and as far north as Idaho, where they survive in power-plant discharge zones. Tilapia are also currently stocked in the Phoenix, Arizona, canal system as an algal growth-control measure.