Triops Longicaudatus
Triops Longicaudatus Red
Triops Longicaudatus
Triops Longicaudatus Red
Triops food
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Live food for Triops and prehistoric crayfish: natural nutrition for healthy animals
Triops and other prehistoric crustaceans such as Artemia or fairy shrimps are becoming increasingly popular with aquarists, hobby breeders and even in classrooms. These fascinating animals are not only living fossils, but also extremely interesting in terms of their development and care. A crucial aspect of successful keeping and breeding is the right diet – and live food plays a very special role here. In this blog article, we take a look at the advantages of live food, suitable food animals, feeding tips and why this natural form of nutrition is not only healthier, but also more species-appropriate.
Why live food?
Triops are omnivorous by nature and exhibit extremely predatory behaviour. In the wild, they feed on small aquatic organisms, larvae, detritus, plant parts and even conspecifics. A varied diet contributes significantly to the health, vitality and natural development of these animals.
Live food offers numerous advantages:
- High nutritional value: Live food is rich in proteins and important micronutrients that are essential for the growth and moulting of Triops.
- Promotion of hunting behaviour: The animals show natural behaviour when preying on food organisms, which keeps them active and vital.
- Better water quality: In contrast to excessive dry food, well-dosed live food usually pollutes the water less.
- Strengthening the immune system: A balanced and natural diet makes Triops more resistant to disease.
Suitable live food species for Triops
There are a variety of live foods that are suitable for Triops and other prehistoric crustaceans. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Microorganisms (infusoria)
Ideal for freshly hatched nauplii. Infusoria can be easily bred from hay cuttings or with a piece of lettuce leaf in a glass of water. They are small enough for the tiny mouths of the Triops larvae and provide the first important nutrients.
2. Artemia nauplii (brine shrimps)
A classic among live food varieties. Artemia nauplii are high in protein and well suited for young and growing Triops. They can be easily bred from eggs and fed with a pipette.
3. Microworms (e.g. armoured worm larvae)
These tiny worms are also easy to breed and make a good addition to the diet. Particularly suitable for Triops in the middle stage of development.
4. Cyclops and daphnia (water fleas)
These small crustaceans are very nutritious and strongly stimulate the Triops’ hunting instinct. Daphnia in particular are well tolerated and will last a few days in the aquarium if they are not eaten immediately.
5. Shiny worms or tubifex
Only recommended in small quantities as they are high in fat and can pollute the water if overfed. Good for adult Triops as an occasional treat.
Tips for feeding with live food
Feeding with live food requires a little more attention than giving dry food, but is easy to do with a little practice.
- Pay attention to dosage: Especially in small tanks, it is important not to feed too much at once so as not to pollute the water unnecessarily.
- Remove food remains: uneaten live food should be vacuumed up after a few hours if it is not long-lived organisms such as Daphnia.
- Breeding live food: Many species such as artemia or infusoria can be easily bred at home – this saves costs in the long term and ensures fresh food.
- Offer variety: A varied diet ensures healthier animals and stimulates natural behaviour.
Conclusion – Natural feeding for healthy animals
Live food is an excellent way of feeding Triops and other prehistoric crustaceans a species-appropriate, nutritious and varied diet. It promotes health, strengthens the immune system and brings movement into the tank. Even if it may seem a little more complicated than dry food, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages. If you take the trouble to grow your own cultures or regularly use fresh live food, you will be rewarded with vital, active and long-lived animals. And last but not least, keepers will also enjoy watching their protégés hunt and eat – a fascinating insight into the lives of these prehistoric creatures.
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