Invertebrate Feeding Guide

Due to the complexities of the modern reef aquarium it is impossible to give definitive instructions as every system is different. Instead we have put together a rough guide that will help you to get the most out of the Vitalis Invertebrate range.

Corals have evolved to feed at night when it is safe to extend their feeding polyps. The lack of coral polyp predators in our systems means that it is possible to entice your coral to feed during the day. Below are some tips and advice for using our range of coral diets.

Mixed Reef Food (Micronised Flake)

If you introduce a small amount of food five minutes before you intend feeding, it trains the coral to extend its polyps and be ready for the main meal. If possible, turn off the sump or filter pump for a short period (no more than 15 minutes) while you feed, leaving the circulation pumps on to keep the food in suspension. Mix the food with a small amount of tank water and target each coral using a large pipette. If you cannot turn off the main pump, still use the above delivery system but add the food upstream of your corals and allow it to circulate. If you do not have a large pipette place a pinch directly under the water in an area of fast flow.

Don’t forget to turn the pumps back on!

Micronised Flake Step-By-Step

Depending on population density, feed daily or every other day
Use one scoop of micronised flake for every 50 litres of water. For heavily stocked aquariums use two scoops for every 50 litres. For best results mix with a small quantity of aquarium water and add to water flow
Ensure the coral is positioned with sufficient flow to allow waste food particles to be removed
Do not put wet fingers in the pot
Store in a cool, dry place

LPS Coral Pellets (1.5mm)

Feed every other day by carefully placing some of the pellets on the oral disc of the coral. The coral will respond by expanding and extending its feeding tentacles. It will grab and envelope the pellets, returning to its normal size once it has ingested the pellets. Ensure the coral is positioned with sufficient flow to allow waste food particles to be removed.

Anemone Pellets (4mm)

Anemone pellets were developed specifically to feed and elicit a feeding response in Anemones. Anemones should be fed when the tentacles are fully extended and the animal is ‘set’ to trap food. Drop a small number of pellets directly onto the open anemone and they will be grabbed and ingested. Adjust the number of pellets to suit the size of anemone. Feeding in a shallow tank can be done by hand. A larger or deeper tank may require using a device such as a feeding tube. Care must be taken to not overfeed and also that there is some way to deal with mis-targeted pellets (i.e. removal or eaten by clean-up crew).