Rainbow Cichlid fry

Question
Yesterday I have managed to remove approx. 50 week old free
swiming 1cm fish fry from my tank as previously they had
disappeared before I had chance to remove them (other tank mates
Parrots, Severms, Silver Dollars etc.) This is the first lot of babies as
I only aqquired the male about 4 months ago.  They are in a lovely
heated 2' tank with water from big tank heated to 27 and plenty of
fresh plants, gravel, rocks, caves etc.  What do I do about feeding
them.  I have put crushed up flakes on top of water, and even
Cyclops but how will I know if they are eating?  and also they seem
to disappear if I put the fish tank light on.  Should I turn it on only
in evening when it is dark or for the full day like with big tank.

Answer
Hi Sheena,
 First, Congratulations!  

 Rainbow fry are pretty small.  They might be able to handle crushed flakes.  Crush the flakes, then swirl the surface water a little, otherwise the flake dust will just sit on top of the water.  The other thing you might try is frozen baby brine shrimp -- you can get it at most fish or pet stores.  

 If possible, feed them twice a day.

 If you look at them closely, you will see that their tiny little bellies swell up when they eat -- it's very cute.

 If you don't regularly leave the light on, then they will be startled when you do turn it on, so for now, I would leave it on the same as the big tank and they will get used to it.

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
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