Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel F. Piñol is upbeat on the potential of the red variety of tilapia, calling it a possible “hot new product” for aquaculturists because of its high growth rate. Mr. Piñol said the Red Nile Tilapia can reach up to 15 inches in length and up to 9.5 pounds in weight. The species can live up to nine years and can flourish in temperatures between 55˚ Fahrenheit and 98˚ Fahrenheit. According to PCAARRD, the red variety was first introduced in the Philippines from Singapore in 1978.

Lim, J. C. (2017, June 20). DA touts potential of raising red tilapia. BusinessWorld, p. S1/2.