Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I'm interested in learning what works for keeping an outdoor tilapia tank over the winter. How to keep the water temps warm?

I live in the Los Angeles area and the low's for the area are mid 50's.

Seems like there are many articles in different threads, but wanting to have a centralized location for the topic.

Curious myself since my plan involves external tanks and electric heating is not an option. Considering insulation and solar heating.

For LA you may want to try the Blue Tilapia, they have the best cold tolerance and can handle 50 degrees and maybe a little more.
With your lows insulation and minimal heating you should be able to keep them year round.

I actually have HI Golden Tilapia. Ironically I actually had a good winter 2012-13. I did expect them to kill over with the temps, but they handled the 47°F water ok.

But for the next, I will be insulating the tank and planning on doing some kind of solar. Just need help on the best direction... thanks.