Why is it possible that feeder fish will not survive?

There are many reasons why feeder fish might not survive. Here are some of the most common:

Environmental Factors:

* Poor water quality: Feeder fish are often kept in crowded and stressful conditions, leading to poor water quality. This can include high levels of ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites, which are toxic to fish.

* Temperature fluctuations: Feeder fish are often kept in tanks that are not properly heated or cooled, leading to temperature fluctuations that can stress them.

* Lack of proper filtration: Poor filtration can lead to a build-up of harmful substances in the water, making it difficult for fish to survive.

* Stress: Being kept in a small, crowded tank with limited space can be very stressful for feeder fish. This stress can weaken their immune systems and make them more susceptible to disease.

Predation:

* Predators in the tank: Feeder fish are often kept in tanks with larger, more aggressive fish. These predators may see the feeder fish as food and eat them.

* Escape: Feeder fish can be very small, making them easy to escape from tanks or buckets. This can leave them vulnerable to predators or harsh environmental conditions.

Disease:

* Parasites: Feeder fish are often infected with parasites, which can weaken them and make them more susceptible to other diseases.

* Bacterial infections: Poor water quality can lead to bacterial infections, which can quickly spread among feeder fish in a crowded tank.

* Viral infections: Viral infections can be very difficult to treat, and can lead to widespread death in a feeder fish population.

Handling and Transportation:

* Rough handling: Feeder fish are often handled roughly, which can injure them and make them more susceptible to disease.

* Improper transport: Long periods of transportation in cramped conditions can stress feeder fish and make them more likely to die.

Other Factors:

* Poor nutrition: Feeder fish are often fed a poor diet that does not provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.

* Age: Many feeder fish are already very young and have limited lifespans, making them less likely to survive for long periods of time.

It's important to remember that feeder fish are living creatures, and their survival depends on a variety of factors. Providing them with proper care can help to improve their chances of survival, but it's never a guarantee.

If you are considering using feeder fish, it's important to weigh the ethical implications of this practice. Using feeder fish can contribute to the overfishing of wild fish populations and can lead to the suffering of these animals.