Saltwater fish need a varied diet. Frozen foods and pellets are two of the most common options. Hikari Mysis shrimp and New Life Spectrum (NLS) pellets are popular choices. This comparison looks at how they differ.
Bottom Line: Hikari Mysis is a popular frozen food that many picky fish accept. NLS pellets are a convenient dry staple. Many reefers feed both for variety.
At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hikari Mysis | Frozen mysis shrimp |
| NLS pellets | Dry pellets in various sizes |
| Best for | Variety and picky eaters |
| Storage | Mysis frozen; pellets dry |
| Feeding | Small amounts once or twice a day |
What It Is and How It Works
Mysis shrimp are small crustaceans that many saltwater fish eat readily. Frozen mysis is often one of the first foods newly imported or picky fish accept, which makes it a common choice during quarantine. It’s generally considered more nutritious than plain brine shrimp.
New Life Spectrum (NLS) pellets are a dry, shelf-stable food made in several sizes. They sink, which suits fish that feed in the middle or lower water column. Some fish accept pellets right away, while others need time.
Variety helps fish get balanced nutrition. Herbivores such as tangs also need algae-based foods, like nori. See what to feed saltwater fish.
Strengths
- Mysis: accepted by many picky fish
- Pellets: convenient
- Both widely available
Limitations
- Mysis: must be frozen
- Pellets: some fish refuse
- Overfeeding risk
Comparison and Feeding Tips
| Feature | Hikari Mysis | NLS pellets |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Frozen cubes or flat packs | Dry sinking pellets |
| Storage | Freezer | Cool, dry place |
| Picky eaters | Often accepted quickly | May need time |
| Convenience | Needs thawing | Ready to feed |
Feeding tips:
- Thaw frozen food in a small cup of tank water, then pour off excess liquid to limit nutrients.
- Feed small amounts that fish finish within a few minutes.
- Remove uneaten food so it doesn’t foul the water.
- Rotate several foods through the week.
- Soak pellets briefly if fish spit them out.
Before You Buy
- Make sure you have freezer space for frozen foods.
- Plan to rotate several foods.
- Watch every fish eat so none miss out.
- Avoid overfeeding, which raises nutrients.
- Choose a pellet size your smallest fish can eat.
Who It Suits
| Good fit if… | Consider something else if… |
|---|---|
| You want a varied diet for your fish | Your fish need a specialized diet, such as some seahorses or mandarins |
| You have picky or newly added fish | You have no freezer space for frozen foods |
| You want a convenient dry staple |
Alternatives to Consider
| Option | How it differs |
|---|---|
| Brine shrimp | Less nutritious |
| Nori | For herbivores |
| Other pellets | Alternative brands |
When to Call Your Vet
Contact your vet if:
- Fish stop eating
- Fish lose weight
- Fish show disease signs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mysis better than brine shrimp?
Mysis is often considered more nutritious than adult brine shrimp, which is mostly water. Enriched brine shrimp can still be useful as part of a varied diet.
How should I thaw frozen mysis?
Thaw it in a small cup of tank water for a few minutes, then pour off excess liquid before feeding. This reduces the nutrients you add to the tank.
Are NLS pellets a good staple food?
Many saltwater keepers use NLS pellets as a staple. Combine them with frozen and algae-based foods for variety.
How much should I feed my fish?
Feed small amounts that your fish eat within a few minutes. Overfeeding is a common cause of poor water quality.
Can saltwater fish eat only pellets?
Some do, but most do better with variety. Rotating pellets, frozen foods and algae helps cover nutritional needs.
Do NLS pellets sink?
Yes, they generally sink. Fish that feed at the surface may need a floating food as well.
Can I feed mysis to corals?
Some corals, especially LPS corals, can catch and eat mysis. Target-feed small amounts and watch for leftover food.
How often should I feed saltwater fish?
Many keepers feed once or twice a day. Some fish, such as anthias and tangs, do better with smaller, more frequent meals.
What should I feed fish during quarantine?
Many keepers start with frozen mysis because picky or stressed fish often accept it. Once fish are eating well, introduce pellets and other foods gradually.
How long does frozen mysis last?
Keep it frozen and use it before the date on the package. Avoid thawing and refreezing, which can reduce quality and encourage bacteria.
Pet Health Man is independent and isn’t paid by the brands we review. Product formulas, specifications and prices change, so check the current label or the manufacturer’s information before you buy.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital.
