Garlic

[Kentsreef]

OK, I know more questions !
I was doing some reading on what to feed my fish to keep them healthier. it said that you can use garlic to help keep some of the parasites down ?? is it the type that you get at the supper market or something special from the lfs. and how do you feed it to them. put it on there pizzas or in the spaghetti

 

[Reefugee]

I press fresh garlic, and soak the fish food with it. Then I feed it to the fish. Other purchase garlic extract and soak the food with it. BTW - I don't think there has been any proof that garlic helps the fish immune system. Non-the-less, I still use it.

Minh

 

[MrMikeB]

Garlic is supposed to be very beneficial to the little guys, and help them build their own immune system. It does not get rid of parasites per se, just allow the fish a better chance at fighting them off naturally. Some claim it helps with ich, and other types of parasites. The trick is getting the fish to actually eat it, which means tossing in a clove is probably not the best idea. The best way is to lace their food with a garlic extract (not oil as this will put a slick on your water). You can find this at a LFS or order online. Typically you soak the food (brine, mysis, etc.) overnight and feed them the next day with it. Alternatively, there is a product I prefer called 'Percon' - I know I am not spelling it right, but they sell it at Exotic Aquarium and is pink with a picture of a Percula Clownfish on the front. It is supposed to have the same effect as garlic extract in addition to other beneficial qualities.

As with any supplements, you will need to ease it on the fish to allow adoption rather than a sudden change. I have had a couple clownfish who really did not like the laced food and it took them a bit longer to come around - whereas all my tangs are gluttons and wolfed it down day one.

Hope this helps!

 

[Bebo77]

garlic increases a fish's appetite there by helping your fish eat and allowing it to hopefully fight of disease naturally...