Feeder fish

Feeder fish is the generic name for certain types of inexpensive fish commonly fed as live prey for captive animals. Feeder fish are generally bought according to their size, and since they are raised in a filtrated enviornment are sometimes seen as a 'cleaner' live foodstuff.

Some pet stores sell animals in bulk, and since they are intended to be eaten quickly they often have no guarantee to fish hardiness. Unfortunately, many novice customers buy such fish for their first tanks due to their low price (Which is risky, considering how large a Comet can get). Many do not survive, contributing to the myth goldfish are not very hardy.

While some animals will readily take them as food, some owners avoid feeder fish due to a high risk of bacterial infection associated with being raised in crowded conditions. Others feel it represents an unnatural diet for certain animals and lead to nutritional imbalances.