How to Use the Aquarium Fish Feeding Calculator
Overfeeding is one of the most common aquarium mistakes — uneaten food decays and spikes ammonia, often killing fish. This calculator uses 2% of estimated body weight as the recommended daily food amount, split across the suggested number of feedings per day. The 2-minute rule is a simple sanity check: if food is still floating after 2 minutes, you fed too much.
Feeding Guidelines by Fish Type
| Fish Type | Daily Feedings | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical freshwater | 2–3× | Small amounts, remove leftovers |
| Goldfish | 2× | Skip one day per week |
| Betta | 1–2× | Prone to bloat; don't overfeed |
| Marine fish | 2× | Zero tolerance for leftover food |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I adjust for water temperature?
Yes — cold water slows metabolism. At temperatures below 65°F (18°C), reduce feeding frequency and amount. Goldfish in outdoor ponds stop eating entirely below 50°F (10°C).
Do juvenile fish need more food per body weight?
Yes — fry (baby fish) should be fed 4–6× daily in small amounts to support rapid growth. Reduce to adult frequency as they mature, typically after the first few months.