The introduction and use of non-native species in aquaculture have played a central role in the development of this economic sector worldwide. Tilapia is one of the most widely introduced group of fish species in the world, and China has become the largest producer and consumer of tilapia. Whilst non-native tilapia in China support provisioning ecosystem services of substantial economic value, the invasion also poses potential threats to native fish diversity, ecosystems and ultimately the sustainable fisheries development. However, knowledge regarding the introductions, aquaculture development, economic benefits and the potential ecological impacts of such important non-native species is still limited, especially in China. Based on thorough literature review as well as field surveys, this paper has comprehensively presented the introduction of tilapia species across a range of Chinese aquatic habitats and its role in the aquaculture industry growth, emphasizing the economic benefits in China. In addition, we also synthesized the potential negative ecological impacts caused by tilapia invasion with global evidences, which will provide excellent lessons and management recommendations for China and other countries/regions around the world. Future trends tend to indicate an increase in the number and frequency of tilapia’s introduction in China, with an increasing likelihood of environmental impacts. However, it is apparent that the aquaculture of non-native tilapias is a highly profitable activity in China which makes the introductions inevitable, therefore, alternative management strategies and implications are further discussed to seek to reduce the risks and negative impacts on ecosystems while still maintaining the economic benefits. Further attention should be paid on tilapia’s introduction risk assessments to achieve a more sustainable and ecosystem-friendly aquaculture.
Key words: Aquatic ecosystems, Biological invasion, Conservation, Ecological risks, Sustainable aquaculture development, Tilapia