Feeding Schedules

[flymike]

I've been feeding my 20 or so mbuna/peacocks once daily for almost a year now.

Usually about 6 pinches of NLS/Hikari & im trying fluval cichlid pallets at the moment,

6 pinches is about how much it takes for the first left overs to touch the bottom, (not picked up on the way down) around 1-2mins.

I have noticed growth has slowed, most are at the point of almost adult (colors starting to come through)

and have been wondering if im under feeding

Iv been reading a couple of articles (opinions really) about feeding schedules

Seems as though a few people are feeding 2 times per day with 1 fasting day a week.

So I'm looking at splitting my feeding in to two (one morning, one night) at 3-4 pinches each , and maybe alternating foods

I would be interested to know how people are approaching feeding scheduals and what benefits or negatives are being seen here in NZ?

Both in growth and water perimeters (no point in over feeding and having to increase water changes)

Thanks

Mike

[bigfishhead]

I feed my grow out tank twice a day, morning and night. I feed my display tank adults every second day but some times every day. It depends on if they shake their tail like dogs so I know they want feed... It works out quite good.

[nudge]

I feed my trophs and calvus twice a day morning and night with 1 day off a week prob a bout enough that its all gone in about 45 seconds each feed. Do a 50% wc every 7 days and my nitrate is around 15-20 on the api test kit. I reckon they are a little under fed but I am happy with their growth rate and they always attack their food at feeding time .

[Likoma]

Both in growth and water perimeters (no point in over feeding and having to increase water changes)

Thanks

Mike

I think that there would be a mellowing of the curve in their growth trajectory. Smaller fish can handle more protein and over time that potential diminishes.

There is definitely a limit as to how much protein they can take in. If I`m around feed up to 10times a day of various foods, a lot less of the protein stuff(man made food NLS, Hikari).

2 feedings works for most people. One early one late. The longer the time in between feeding the bigger the growth potential. Strong healthy fish hate Macdonalds.

I have just put together a video on fish nutrition Ill send you a link when its done.

Good luck