Mysis are considered a part of the zooplankton, the small invertebrate animals found in all lakes that feed on microscopic algae (phytoplankton) as well as other zooplankton. In turn these organisms form the basis of the food supply for many fish. There are however, two major differences between Mysis and the other zooplankton typically found in lakes. 

First, Mysis have a longer lifespan. The typical zooplankton, composed of animals known as
copepods, cladocerans and rotifers, live anywhere from only several days to several months. In our lakes, populations of these animals may complete a number of generations in the course of a year. Usually they become very abundant during the summer months and very sparse during the winter. 

The second difference is size. Mysis range in size from newly released young of about one-eight inch to adults of up to 3/4 inch. The other zooplankton are normally much smaller ranging from one one-hundreth to one tenth of an inch in total length. 

It is the size of the Mysis that makes them of interest as a fish food. Because they are much larger than the zooplankton that fish normally feed upon, they are an excellent food item. Fish that consistently feed on Mysis grow much faster than those feeding strictly on the other smaller zooplankton. Mysis are extremely high in nutritional value and are salt free.

Completely Natural: Unlike many processed fish foods, MYSIS are (or very closely resemble) a food item which fish would normally contact within their native environment.

High Protein: The protein content is in excess of that normally recommended for growth, maintenance, and reproduction.

High Animal Fat: Mysis relicta make nightly vertical migrations from 360 feet to the surface to eat, then return to 360 feet at daybreak. These migrations require enormous amounts of energy which is stored in MYSIS as animal fat. The consumption of MYSIS makes this energy available to fish for general metabolism, swimming, defending territory, and for reproduction.

Sodium Free: MYSIS are truly "freshwater". The lack of salt intake for fish (especially for marine animals) is desirable since these fish are constantly struggling to expel salt from their bodies.

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