Induced spawning and artificial incubation of Tilapia

Methods for induced spawning and artificial incubation of Tilapia nilotica and T. aurea are described. These methods were required for the production, in aquaria, of F₁ hybrids between the two species. Spawning families were established in long aquaria from which sexually ripe individuals were selected for stripping by their “on heat” display coloration. Injections of pituitary hormones were not required. The fertilized eggs were incubated in a low speed “shaker”. At correct temperatures Tilapia fry may be produced by this artificial process all year round.