How Long Can Fish Go Without Food?

[Patroklos]

In this case five Chromis and one Powder Blue Tang.

I am headed to a wedding this weekend and am leaving today (3 days total). I could have my roomate sprinkle in some flake food but I doubt he would remember to do the frozen/seaweed preparations I feed every other day.

Will my fish be able to survive 3 days without real food? I am particularly worried about the Powder Blue Tang as he is still in quarantine (three weeks now, looking great!) and thus doesn't have live rock to supplement his diet.

 

[melosu58]

They will make it 3 days for sure. I`ve read that in the wild fish can go up to 2 weeks without food. I only feed mine every other day anyway and two more days wont hurt.

 

[austinsdad]

In an established tank, you should be ok. Even kinda new maybe. I can leave for 7 days and not lose a fish. But i do feed them heavily for 3 or 4 days before I go.

Edited - just noticed the tang in QT with no rock to nibble on. I'd get the room mate to do the sprinkle thing you mentioned.

 

[Patroklos]

Thanks guys, not I won't have to worry about coming hime to a water filled coffin

 

[roka64]

I agree, I do skip the third every once in a while. Make sure to have some top off water. You may want to treat it so your roommate doesn't have to treat it for you.