Most retailers know that cats and dogs need a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. But do you know what fish require in their diets? Here are the essential nutrients that herbivorous and carnivorous fish need to grow and maintain their health:

• Protein: Protein is a key element that’s required for good health and growth in all types of fish. Though percentages vary based on the type of fish, herbivores need 15 to 30 percent protein in their diets, while carnivores need at least 45 percent protein. Young fish require even more--at least 50 percent of their diets should be composed of protein.
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• Carbohydrates: Fish don’t need a lot of carbs in their diet; too much can, in fact, deter proper growth. However, adult fish can tolerate as much as 40 percent carbohydrates in their diet without ill effects.
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• Fiber: Though small quantities of fiber aid in digestion, there shouldn’t be too much in a fish’s diet. Carnivores can not digest fiber well at all, and shouldn’t have more than 4 percent in their diets. To remain healthy, herbivores should consume between 5 and 10 percent fiber in their diets.
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• Fat: It’s not good for us, and it’s not good for fish, either. Fish diets, in general, should be low in fat. Even meat-eating fish require no more than 8 percent fat in their diet. Plant eaters need no more than 3 percent. Too much fat may damage the liver, and can result in disease and early death. Hard fats, such as those found in beef, are hard for fish to digest. Polyunsaturated fats, like those in brine shrimp, are most digestible.
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• Vitamins: Many fish keepers are not aware of the critical role vitamins play in fish health. Lack of Vitamin A can cause back deformities and stunted growth in young fish. Anytime a fish is under stress the need for Vitamin A is increased. Vitamin K is critical for proper blood clotting. Vitamins B1, B2, and B6 are important for normal growth. Good digestion requires an adequate amount of Vitamin B3 and C. Vitamin C is also needed for healthy bones and teeth.
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• Minerals: Minerals promote healthy bones, teeth and scales. Fish require calcium and phosphorus, as well as smaller amounts of iron, iodine, magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper and zinc. Calcium is found in hard water, and phosphorus is found in live plants. If soft water and artificial plants are used, it is important to supplement the diet with foods containing minerals. Bone or meat meal is a good source of both calcium and phosphorus.

Most commercial brands of fish food contain these essential nutrients. Encourage your customers to purchase food in small quantities to maintain freshness and vary the diet to assure that their fish have all the nutrients they need for good health and a long life. <HOME>