Some aspects of biology and aquaculture potentials of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Tilapia guineensis</Emphasis> (dumeril) in Nigeria

The paper emphasizes on the several attempts made to raise the brackish water tilapia species, Tilapia guineensis both on an experimental and production basis by researchers and fish farmers in Nigeria. Besides, the aquaculture potentials of Tilapia guineensis have been reported by several authors. However, problems exist which are not found with the culture of other tilapia species. Even under most favourable conditions (e.g. the monosex culture of Tilapia guineensis), a poor growth rate and a mediocre feed conversion do not presage profitable aquaculture exploitation. The present review therefore throws light on areas of further research to enhance the growth performance of Tilapia guineensis with emphasis on fish larvae nutrition and first feeding (development of bio-encapsulated feed for larval fish based on nutritionally enriched nematodes and Calanoid copepods), digestibibilty of the feed ingredients, elucidation of the dietary protein requirements, improved culture technique through the use of the Recirculating Aquaculture Systems and the adoption of the most recent technology (The YY Male technology) that produces Genetically Male Tilapia through genetic manipulation. Specific recommended areas for further research are also proffered.