Reply #6: i think the fisherfolk killed all the perch, cod, etc.

[pitohui]

then it became necessary to breed the tilapia, originally from lake victoria (or so i've been led to believe, anyhoo it comes from africa i'm fairly certain and i THINK from east africa)

this is a tough as nails fish that can survive poor conditions, making it a good fish for farming

however, i heard of escapee tilapia being infected with botulism leading to the deaths of many pelicans and other waterfowl in california, not sure if this is urban legend tho -- the tough as nails implying the fish don't die because of the botulism, thus was caught up by the pelicans -- again, not sure if this is true

as far as in the kitchen, it is a mild fish so works well in many recipes, and it's kinda thin so cooks pretty quickly too

have to admit i've come to rely on it for instant quickie fish almondine

it would not be a fish i'd serve rare or sushi because of the above urban legend but i'm quite possibly just being silly