Abstract
The tilapia aquaculture has developed into a vital component in the global food security and rural livelihoods, with its value of around 6.9million metric tonnes worth of $12.5 billion in 2023. This review brings together the current literature that is related to the biological traits, farming systems, nutrition, disease management, environmental impacts, socioeconomic benefits, and technological innovations in tilapia aquaculture. It is centered on the main cultured species, i.e. Oreochromis niloticus, O. mossambicus, O. aureus, etc. The narrative review method was adopted based on the recent peer-reviewed publications, FAO reports, and industry data. The key gaps identified include poor adoption of climate-resilient and precision technologies by small-scale producers, an underlying gender inequality, lack of scalable biosecurity and vaccination solutions, and environmental threat in the form of nutrient runoffs and invasive escapes. The research recommends giving priority to affordable innovations, inclusive policy frameworks that serve the interests of the small holders particularly women, climate-adaptive strains and systems, strengthened biosecurity systems and enhanced application of certified sustainable practices including the ASC and the BAP, which will balance the productivity, environmental stewardship and social equity.