Bloodworms - Do You Cut Them Up?

[rdd1952]

I found one of my black phantom tetras dead today (actually found a little tiny fish skeleton and by process of elimination deduced it was a tetra). They have been in the tank since March, perfect water parameters and no sign of disease or injury when I fed them yesterday. I always notice that when I feed frozen bloodworms, the tetras all swim around with one hanging out of their mouths (have seen a couple with 2 in their mouth). Is it possible for them to choke on one? I know their throats are very tiny so they definitely couldn't swallow one whole like the angels can. When I put a cube in water to thaw, there are so many to cut up but is it something I need to do to protect my fish?

 

[Dorkhedeos]

i dont think they can choke on something so soft. when dwarf puffers eat, the bloodworm is almost as long as them, and they still manage to eat it

 

[rdd1952]

I just wondered if it could somehow get lodged in their throat. I can't imagine what else could have happened to him.

 

[Lynden]

It wont get lodged in the throat, a lot of fish actually have crushing teeth in the throat, called pharyngal teeth, to prevent choking and grind up food. It shouldnt be a problem.

 

[rdd1952]

I guess it was something else that did him in. I just can't imagine what it was. They were the first fish in the tank and definitely no problems in the past.

 

[Bloo]

Eevn my tiny Endlers gorge on full grown bloodworms, so I doubt that the death is due to the bloodworm but you will never know for sure I guess. I think it unlikely though.