Tilapia are a hardy, fast growing fish, that can live up to ten years and reach ten pounds in weight. Tilapia are shaped like a sunfish or crappie and are easily identifiable by the interrupted lateral line characteristic of the Chiclid family of fishes.
A tilapia fish is very mild in flavor and some would argue that it is virtually flavorless. However, it does have a slight sweetness similar to what you would get from a red snapper or striped bass. The raw fillets are a pinkish-white color and, once cooked, turn completely white. If the fish still has its skin on, then there is usually a darker layer of meat just below the skin. This meat is perfectly edible, but it is often removed if the fish has been filleted. The texture of a tilapia is lean and firm with a flaky texture.
