Fish normally feed in one of two ways: by occasionally gulping down a huge meal (eg. fish-eating species, such as lionfish) or by picking at small bits of food almost continuously (most species).

In most cases it's best to feed little but often. Small marine fish, in particular, may have trouble adapting to one or two big feeds a day. They may need to be fed several times each day until they grow a bit.

Watch out for uneaten food. Never leave it in the tank for more than a couple of hours.

Careful, patient feeding with the right food should ensure little or no food goes uneaten. Having some small shrimps in the tank may help clean up any excess.

Your aquarium shop can advise on the best food for your particular fish.