Many a gardener breeds plants, others have devoted themselves to beekeeping. Raising water fleas is a rather rare hobby, but one that pays off, especially for aquarium owners. In addition, the cultivation is very uncomplicated and even succeeds in the rain barrel in the garden. On this page you will find everything you need to know.
Even though water fleas are extremely small, they are a treat for fish
Breeding water fleas is a worthwhile hobby
You own an aquarium and would like to spend less on fish food in the future? Then breed your food in the rain barrel in your own garden. Water fleas require little maintenance and, as live food, offer the following advantages for your fish:
- High fiber content
- Simple breeding
- Are gladly accepted by fish
- Very easy to cultivate in the garden
- Cost savings
- Keep your fish moving in the form of live food
Note: Don't confuse the high fiber content with the nutrients. These supply water fleas namely comparatively small. They are therefore not suitable as sole feed.
Advantages of growing in the rain barrel
- space saving
- Water fleas destroy algae
- You don't have to control the water temperature.
- No additional feeding necessary
Breeding Guide
Furnishing
In order for your culture to develop well, an initial stock of around 100 water fleas is recommended. You can get this in specialist shops. Otherwise, all you need is a rain barrel and, if necessary, some food for the water fleas.
location of the rain barrel
It is best to place your rain barrel in partial shade. It should be neither too warm nor too cold. By the way, water movement prevents algae from forming due to leftover food. A little draft can therefore not hurt.
What do water fleas eat?
In contrast to growing them indoors, you hardly have to feed them when they are kept in a rain barrel. For a good development, however, it is definitely advisable to provide the water fleas with nutrients at the beginning. Suitable is
- Spirulina Powder
- yeast
- floating positions
- microcell
- liquicell
- microplan
- Source Bladder Snails
harvest
Every five to ten days you can take a few water fleas from your stock and feed them to your fish. However, you should limit yourself to a small amount to ensure the survival of your culture.