How to Feed Your Fishes
One of the most important things you can do for your fishes is to feed them properly. Whether you are a first time fish keeper or an experienced hobbyist, learning how to feed your fishes properly can make all the difference in keeping them healthy and happy.
How to Feed Your Fishes
The most important thing to remember when feeding your fish is to feed them in the right amounts, and to be aware of how much they eat each time you feed them. This can take a little experimenting but once you have measured out the perfect amount you will be sure to only feed them that amount each time.
When you start to feed your fishes a new food be sure to introduce it slowly. This will help them to get used to the food and also help you to regulate how much they eat each time they are fed.
A common mistake is to give too much at the first feed as this can upset their digestive systems. You can do this by using a scale to measure how many grams you are giving each time you feed them. Once you have measured the correct amount for each of your fishes you can then feed them a small amount at each feed and see how they respond to it.
You can also experiment with different types of food to find out which one they prefer. This will allow you to feed them a well balanced diet that is appropriate for their species and also help to increase their lifespan.
Ideally fish should be fed at least twice per day, and it is best to feed them during the mornings and evenings. This will help to mimic their natural habitat and allow them to forage for food.
This will also help to keep your tank cleaner and reduce the build-up of waste, which can cause odors in your water. If you are unable to feed your fishes regularly, you can also use live foods to supplement their diet.
Livefoods can be frozen or still alive so it is important to check the ingredients to ensure that it is safe for your fishes. Some fishes may not eat certain livefoods due to health or parasite issues.
Dry food is a great way to feed your fishes as it is usually higher in nutrients than frozen or livefoods and is easier to digest for the fish. Typical dry foods include flaked flakes, pellets and dried meats and vegetables.
The amount of food you should feed your fishes depends on how they behave and how active they are. For example, fast eaters are going to need more food than slower feeders.
If you have a lot of fish, it is often best to use a feeding stick or tube to help with this. This can make it easier to control how much they eat as you can adjust it according to their movements and if they need more or less.