Feeding Peanut Bunker

[skjl47]

what kinds of pathogens, parasites, etc. those fish probably have.

Actually wild feeders tend to have less transferable pathogens than store bought

incase there is something that our home freezers can't kill

Hello; While I did this sort of thing 50 years ago when I was 11 or 12, I did stop. Did have some things show up in my tanks as I recall. I guess it took a while for me to figure it out. No internet back then and few fellow fish keepers to talk to. Had to figure things out myself.

On some posts it has been stated that our home freezers do not get cold enough to kill all pathogens and/or parasites. It is recommended to buy fish filets that have been flash frozen in commercial freezer units for stuff to feed our fish.
I guess you could do a 6 to 8 week or maybe longer QT of the feeders.

Anyway I do not catch wild foods anymore.

 

[RD.]

On some posts it has been stated that our home freezers do not get cold enough to kill all pathogens and/or parasites.

Home freezers are just as good as commercial freezers, as long as the setpoint setting is correct (0 F), and the freezer is functioning properly and capable of reaching that setpoint. The key things when freezing fresh fish to feed later is this - freeze for 48 hrs at 0F (-18C) to destroy any potential parasites, and use up within 30 days or so. Freezing will not destroy all micro-organisms, so there is still some risk involved in feeding frozen products, but freezing certainly minimizes those risks. Also note that frozen fish that have been unthawed under refrigeration, should be fed within 24 hrs. (or discarded)

 

[TheWolfman]

We use bunker as bait for sharks because of how oily and messy it is. It puts off a heavy chum slick. It would definitely destroy your water quality if you choose to feed it you your fish. The best bargain out there as far as fish food goes is to hit the local super market and pickup same farmed tilapia. I get 2 pounds of clean filets for $5. Obviously you need to feed more then one thing to your fish but this is a great staple food to work around.

 

[richyrich]

Agree with these guys, to risky to messy just not worth it if you value your fish.
So many good alternatives out there
But that being said if you enjoy watching the predation skill on your fish quarantine the fish first or breed your own feeders.

 

[richyrich]

What fish is it anyway?