Meal-prepping for your fish isn’t too different from meal-prepping for yourself. While fish obviously aren’t known for their distinguished taste buds, they are known to appreciate variety—just like humans. Similar to how you wouldn’t want to eat the same dinner day after day, tropical fish also appreciate some diversity in their cuisines.

When it comes to the question of soft or hard pellets for food, the answer can be both. Like any living thing, the important thing is that your fish get the nutrients they need to survive and thrive. Rare tropical fish need high-quality chow with good amounts of Vitamin D, protein, and a diversity of minerals that will support their immunity and help them grow. Additionally, they enjoy the occasional carbohydrate—but keep it small.

Vegetarian fish love to munch on spirulina, which is a type of algae. Meat-eaters may delight in blends of bloodworms, shrimp, and krill. When purchasing pellets, most soft pellets are easy for fish to eat and can contain protein-rich blends that will keep them healthy and jubilant. You may also consider freeze-dried food, such as silkworms, for a healthy snack.

Remember—fish are vertebrates, so they have five senses. Their taste buds can detect bitter, salty, sour, and sweet flavors, so don’t be afraid to give them the occasional treat.