FAQs about spawn and tadpoles: feeding tadpoles

A pond should provide all the food the tadpoles need (Terry Brooker)

WILDLIFE INFORMATION SERVICE

Frequently Asked Questions about... spawn and tadpoles:

Should I feed the tadpoles in my pond?

Ponds normally provide enough food for tadpoles without any need to supplement their diet.

Newly hatched tadpoles are herbivorous and feed on the algae that grows on pond plants or on rocks in the pond, particularly those exposed to the sun. In the latter stages of their development they become omnivorous, feeding on decaying matter in the pond and tiny creatures such as water fleas (Daphnia).

Some people choose to supplement tadpole diets with lettuce/spinach (to start) or fish flakes (for cold water fish). This approach is undoubtedly beneficial, especially if numbers are high or if the pond is relatively new, though adding too much food will pollute the water and may lead to unwanted algal blooms.

More information:

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