A fish's metabolism slows during colder temps, along with its growth.
A fish that feels bloated will not continue to feed. A fish will only eat , if it's hungry and has capacity for more food.
They know when to stop eating instinctively.
I'm not sure I buy into that. Like Dave says, instinct appears to say just the opposite at times...."food is available now, better eat it"....I have HBG in one pond, and I have watched them eat until the feed fills their stomachs and throats...when they open their mouths to try and take another pellet, undigested feed comes out.
Those fish are full, no question about it. Yet they still attempt to continue feeding.
Animal instincts are fine, but I don't think they're perfect safeguards. Ever see a horse that has foundered on feed, or even lush grass? Or a dog that has drank antifreeze? Sure, they're warm blooded and may experience taste sensations that fish cannot, but you would think instinct would kick in to keep them safe?
