A Guide To Feeding your Killifish

A Guide To Feeding your Killifish

Properly feeding Killifish is the key to their stunning colours, active behaviour, and general health. These stunning, usually overlooked fish have specialised feeding requirements that differ slightly based on the type, but there are some rules of thumb all killifish keepers need to adhere to. In this tutorial, we will discuss it all from the foods they enjoy to how much you should feed them, so your aquatic friends live happily.

Knowing Killifish and What They Eat

Before getting into the specifics of feeding Killifish, let's learn a bit about where and how they naturally live. Killifish live in both brackish and fresh water throughout Africa, South America, and most of Asia. When they live in the wild, they naturally eat insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms, and other small water animals. This translates to feeding Killifish in a tank to replicate their natural diet for the best health.

Food Types for Feeding Killifish

Killifish love a variety of feed. High-quality dry foods will keep your fish active and vibrant. Here are some top choices:

Dry Foods: Micro pellets or flakes having high protein and formulated for carnivorous fish can be included in their diet, although these must not be fed exclusively while feeding Killifish.

Feeding Frequency and Portion Size

Feeding Killifish is done once or twice a day in small quantities. It can spoil the tank water easily if overfed, which is harmful for such sensitive fish. A thumb rule for feeding Killifish is to feed as much as they can eat within 2-3 minutes. Remove leftovers immediately to maintain cleanliness in the tank.

Feeding Killifish Fry

Feeding Killifish fry requires a little more attention and care. The secret to success in feeding Killifish fry is to feed them several times a day in small amounts. Their development relies greatly on the frequency and quality of feedings. 

Keep in mind that certain species of killifish are pickier than others when it comes to food. Patience and a gradual introduction to prepared foods are required in these situations. Additionally, if you're trying to breed Killifish, keep in mind that males and females may have slightly different nutritional needs during breeding times.

Things to keep in mind

Alternate between various types of food when feeding Killifish to provide balanced nutrition.

Watch your fish while feeding to check their health and appetite.

Feed in the same location and at the same time every day to establish a routine.

Quarantine new fish and their food sources when feeding Killifish to prevent the introduction of diseases.

What do killifish eat?

Feeding Killifish correctly is one of the easiest and most effective methods for keeping them fit and content. Whether a newcomer or an old hand, knowing their diet requirements will enable you to appreciate their intriguing behaviour and breathtaking beauty for years to come. Make variety and quality your top priorities when feeding Killifish, and you will be rewarded with a healthy aquatic community.


At Intan, we are here to provide you with premium fish feed. Our feed is tailored to meet the specific needs of each species. Every feed can spark positive change and create a future promoting quality, resilience, and well-being. We aim to serve the needs of hobbyists and breeders for the best quality of each species’ unique requirements. To know more about us, check out our Instagram page or find us at our nearest out spot.

We are not just a brand; we are stewards of the underwater world. We believe in the well-being of our friends and their mental health. Understanding and addressing the stressors that affect fish is not just a concept for us, it's a commitment. Through our dedication to research and innovative products, we aim to ensure that fish everywhere can lead happier, healthier lives.

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