Overfeeding is one of the most common mistakes in fish keeping, leading to water quality issues and health problems. Here's how to feed your aquatic pets properly:

1. Understand Your Fish's Diet:

Fish species have different dietary needs:

• Herbivores: Need plant-based foods (spirulina flakes, algae wafers)
• Carnivores: Require protein-rich foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms)
• Omnivores: Need a mix of both

2. Feeding Frequency:

Most fish do well with:

• 1-2 small feedings per day
• Only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes
• Fasting one day per week to prevent constipation

3. Special Considerations:

• Nocturnal fish may need food after lights out
• Bottom feeders require sinking pellets
• Breeding fish often need enhanced nutrition

4. Signs of Overfeeding:

• Food accumulating on the substrate
• Cloudy water or algae blooms
• Fish with distended bellies or refusing food

Remember that fish metabolism slows in cooler water, so adjust feeding amounts accordingly if you keep cold-water species.