Redbreast Tilapia
Redbreast Tilapia Spotlight – Hardy, Vegetarian Fish for Sustainable Aquaculture
At Zeekoevalley Farms, we supply several species of tilapia, but one of the most versatile and sustainable options we offer is the Redbreast Tilapia (Tilapia rendalli). Known for their vibrant appearance, herbivorous diet, and strong survival rates, Redbreast Tilapia are ideal for pond stocking, aquaponics, and low-cost food production.
Whether you're a homesteader, smallholder, or aquaponics enthusiast, here’s why Redbreast Tilapia are worth considering for your system.
Naturally Vegetarian – Feed Them What You Grow (or Reuse)
One of the most remarkable traits of Redbreast Tilapia is their strictly plant-based diet. Unlike other tilapia species that require protein-rich feeds, Redbreast Tilapia can thrive almost entirely on vegetation — making them perfect for low-cost and sustainable feeding systems.
Real-World Example: Lettuce-Fed Tilapia in Gauteng
One farmer in Gauteng, as shared in a local aquaculture group, has successfully raised Redbreast Tilapia entirely on lettuce scraps collected from a commercial lettuce farm. While not yet formally published, stories like these show the powerful potential of sustainable, plant-fed systems.
- This makes them ideal for:
- Integrated aquaponics systems
- Waste-reduction farming
- Self-sufficiency setups
- Community garden ponds
Know of a similar setup or want to share your own? We'd love to hear from you — contact us and we’ll feature your story in our blog.
Natural Algae and Weed Control
These fish don’t just eat lettuce — they love aquatic plants too. In dam or pond environments, Redbreast Tilapia help control:
- Algae
- Duckweed
- Overgrown aquatic weeds
Instead of using herbicides or constantly cleaning your pond, these fish act as natural grazers, promoting a balanced aquatic ecosystem.
Fast Growth and Strong Resilience
Redbreast Tilapia are known for:
- Rapid growth in warm freshwater (24–30°C)
- Excellent feed conversion on plant-based diets
- High survival rates in clean, low-stress systems
They can reach 25–30 cm in length and weigh up to 500–800g at harvest size, making them a reliable food source for small farms and households.
Visually Striking and Ornamental
While Redbreast Tilapia are bred for function, they’re also visually beautiful — with reddish-orange fins and a distinctive breast colour. In ornamental ponds, they add motion and colour, especially when stocked with other tilapia species or goldfish.
Edible, Mild Flavoured White Fish
Redbreast Tilapia produce clean, white flesh that’s easy to cook and has a mild flavour — ideal for home butchering or small-scale fish systems.
- They're commonly enjoyed:
- Grilled or pan-fried
- In fish stews or braais
What You Get from Zeekoevalley Farms
Our Redbreast Tilapia fingerlings are:
- 2–6 cm in size
- Raised on-site at our farm with healthy, clean systems
- Shipped with a Live Arrival Guarantee (conditions apply)
- Available in small and bulk quantities