Feeding cichlids

[glolite]

I read on an earlier post that it's healthy to fast fish occasionally. Is this true for bigger fish as well? My cichlids are all between 6 and 8 inches and chomp their grub happily twice a day. My common plec is about 7 inches long and hoovers up most leftovers and I'm doing gravel vacs and water changes twice a week. Any views please?

 

[Tempestuousfury]

I suppose it would work. I mean, there are no doubt times when they do not get live foods to eat in the wild. Since the purpose is to maintain activity and reduce waste, I suppose it would work. However, I do not know the detriments of doing so, at least when it comes to cichlids. I gander that it's not much different. :dunno;

 

[Dorsal]

I have definately heard this about tropical fish. However (and I don't have cyclids but am getting them), I have been told that if you don't feed cychlids then the chances of them attacking each other increases as they begin to view their tankmates as "dinner"

 

[glolite]

Thanks
Think I'll keep feeding small quantities for now. They're aggressive enough as it is

 

[freddyk]

There is really no harm or benefit to a fasting day with most fish.

 

[hankey]

I have heard of people who are away not feeding their chiclids over adding one of the "week-end" or travel blocks of food that are often shaped like a seashell or pryamid. If your concern is becuase you won't be around or might miss a feeding alot of people recommend the programmable timers.