Based on expert advice, the best fish foods for tropical fish and goldfish include options like Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food, TetraGoldfish Flakes, TetraFin Plus Flakes, and TetraMin Tropical Flake Food. These formulas support growth, vibrant colors, and overall health, while producing minimal waste to keep water clean. Each offers specific benefits like sinking pellets or floating flakes for different species and life stages. Keep exploring to discover which food best fits your fish’s needs and environment.
Key Takeaways
- High-quality floating pellets and flakes support natural feeding behaviors and water quality for tropical fish and goldfish.
- Formulations with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural color enhancers promote vibrant coloration and overall health.
- Specialized foods like sinking wafers and soft sticks meet bottom-dwelling and growth needs across species.
- Expert-recommended brands such as TetraPro, TetraFin Plus, and Blue Ridge support growth, immunity, and water clarity.
- Proper portioning and seasonal feeding practices ensure optimal nutrition and maintain a healthy pond or aquarium environment.
Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 4.5lb – Koi Food 3/16” Platinum Pro Formula
If you’re looking for a high-quality food that promotes healthy growth and vibrant coloration in koi and goldfish, Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 4.5lb with its 3/16” platinum pro formula is an excellent choice. These floating pellets are designed for all life stages, making feeding simple and effective. Fish love the uniform size and quickly consume the pellets at the surface, reducing waste. The formula supports rapid growth, enhances coloration, and maintains overall health. Customers praise its effectiveness, noting their fish stay active and vibrant over time. Plus, the minimal fines and lack of strong fishy smell make it a convenient and reliable option for pond enthusiasts.
Best For: pond hobbyists and koi or goldfish owners seeking a high-quality, easy-to-feed pellet food that promotes vibrant coloration and healthy growth for all life stages.
Pros:
- Promotes rapid growth and vibrant coloration in koi and goldfish
- Floating pellets reduce waste and are easy to feed at the surface
- Minimal fines and no strong fishy smell enhance feeding convenience and cleanliness
Cons:
- Requires daily feeding, which may not suit less active pond environments
- Pellet size may not be ideal for very small or juvenile fish
- Slightly higher price point compared to some basic fish foods
Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 14lb Bucket
The Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 14lb Bucket stands out as an ideal choice for owners with sizable Koi and goldfish over 5 inches, seeking a complete diet that supports rapid growth and overall health. Its large, floating pellets soften quickly, making digestion easy and water pollution minimal. Formulated with a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals, it boosts fish resistance to stress and promotes vibrant, healthy development. Designed for all-season use, this premium food ensures your fish get high-quality nutrition year-round. Plus, with a satisfaction guarantee, you can trust Blue Ridge prioritizes your fish’s well-being and your confidence in their product.
Best For: Owners of sizable Koi and goldfish over 5 inches seeking a high-quality, all-season diet that promotes rapid growth and health.
Pros:
- Contains a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals to support overall fish health.
- Floating pellets soften quickly for easy digestion and reduce water pollution.
- Suitable for all-season use, providing consistent nutrition year-round.
Cons:
- May be more expensive compared to generic fish foods.
- Large pellet size might not be ideal for smaller or juvenile fish.
- Requires a sizable storage space for the 14lb bucket.
Tetra Goldfish Flakes, Fish Food for Aquarium Fish
Looking for a reliable fish food that supports the health and vibrant colors of your goldfish? Tetra Goldfish Flakes are an excellent choice. Enriched with Vitamin C and featuring the Active Life Formula™, they promote healthy cells, growth, and digestion. These flakes produce less waste, helping keep your water cleaner and clearer. They’re easy for goldfish to digest and can be fed up to three times daily, in amounts your fish can consume within three minutes. Packaged in a convenient 8.8-ounce container, they’re highly rated for quality, color enhancement, and overall fish well-being. Many hobbyists report their fish love these flakes and stay healthy with regular use.
Best For: Goldfish and small koi owners seeking a nutritionally balanced, color-enhancing fish food that promotes health and water quality.
Pros:
- Enriched with Vitamin C and antioxidants for overall fish health and vitality
- Produces less waste, helping maintain cleaner, clearer water
- Easy to digest with a high acceptance rate among fish, supporting growth and color
Cons:
- Some users note a strong smell upon opening the container
- Larger flakes may not be suitable for very small fish without breaking apart
- Requires regular feeding multiple times daily to maintain optimal health
TetraFin Plus Goldfish Flakes 7.06 Ounces
TetraFin Plus Goldfish Flakes 7.06 ounces stands out as an ideal choice for goldfish owners seeking a complete, nutritionally balanced daily diet. I appreciate that these flakes support overall fish health, enhance natural colors, and promote longevity. The micro-milled formula produces less waste, helping keep water cleaner, which is essential for small ponds and aquariums. The added algae flakes provide vegetable matter, aiding digestion and peak condition. Suitable for all life stages, these flakes contain a patented ProCare blend of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements to strengthen immune systems. I find them easy to feed multiple times daily, ensuring my fish stay vibrant and healthy.
Best For: goldfish owners looking for a nutritionally balanced, easy-to-digest daily diet that enhances color and supports overall health.
Pros:
- Supports fish health, vibrant coloration, and longevity with a balanced formula.
- Micro-milled flakes produce less waste, helping maintain cleaner water.
- Suitable for all life stages and includes added algae flakes for digestion and vegetable matter.
Cons:
- May not be ideal for larger koi or other fish species requiring different diets.
- Some users might prefer organic or additive-free options.
- The product packaging could be more eco-friendly or resealable for freshness.
TetraMin Tropical Fish Flake Food (7.06 oz)
If you’re seeking a reliable and nutritionally complete food for your tropical fish, TetraMin Tropical Fish Flake Food (7.06 oz) stands out as an excellent choice. It’s specially formulated for top- and mid-feeding tropical fish, offering easily digestible flakes that don’t cloud water. Enriched with vitamins, omega-3s, and immunostimulants, it supports fish health, growth, and vibrant coloration. The “Clean and Clear Water Formula” minimizes waste, keeping the tank cleaner. Suitable for all life stages, I find it simple to feed—just a few flakes twice or thrice daily—and my fish always seem lively and healthy. It’s a trusted, long-lasting option.
Best For: fishkeepers seeking a nutritionally complete, easy-to-digest flake food that promotes vibrant coloration and water clarity for top- and mid-feeding tropical fish of all life stages.
Pros:
- Highly digestible flakes that do not cloud water, promoting a cleaner tank environment
- Enriched with vitamins, omega-3s, and immunostimulants to support overall fish health and vitality
- Long-lasting 7.06 oz container offering great value for regular feeding
Cons:
- May be less suitable for bottom-feeding fish, as it’s designed primarily for top- and mid-level feeders
- Some users might prefer more specialized formulas for specific species or dietary needs
- Flakes may require careful portioning to prevent overfeeding and water pollution
Tetra TetraPro Goldfish Crisps Fish Food (3.03 oz)
For small-breed adult goldfish, Tetra TetraPro Goldfish Crisps offer a nutritionally balanced diet that supports overall health and vitality. Made with an exclusive low-heat process, they preserve essential vitamins and nutrients, ensuring superior nutrition. The crisps are designed to float longer, giving fish more time to feed naturally, and contain Biotin to boost their immune systems. They produce less waste than flakes, helping keep the tank cleaner. The round, substantial shape makes them ideal for bottom grazing and outdoor ponds. Overall, these crisps provide a convenient, nutritious option for maintaining healthy, active goldfish.
Best For: small-breed adult goldfish owners seeking a nutritious, low-mess, floating food that promotes health and cleaner tanks.
Pros:
- Preserves essential vitamins through low-heat processing for optimal nutrition
- Designed to float longer, encouraging natural feeding behaviors
- Produces less waste than flakes, helping maintain a cleaner aquarium
Cons:
- Small container size may be considered expensive relative to the amount
- Some users experience tank cloudiness if overfed
- Limited size options and availability in stores may restrict convenience
Aqueon Shrimp Pellets Sinking Fish Food
Aqueon Shrimp Pellets are an excellent choice for bottom-dwelling fish like plecostomus, loaches, and corydoras, especially if you want to support their natural feeding habits. These sinking pellets are about 9mm in size and suitable for all life stages, ensuring they meet the needs of various species. They dissolve slowly, providing continuous access to nutrients while minimizing waste and water clouding. Enriched with natural colors, vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients, they promote vibrant colors, health, and growth. Fish and aquarists alike appreciate their firm texture, fresh smell, and effectiveness in feeding picky eaters.
Best For: bottom-dwelling fish such as plecostomus, loaches, corydoras, and South American cichlids, as well as invertebrates like snails and picky eaters like frogs.
Pros:
- Sinks slowly and dissolves gradually, promoting natural feeding behaviors and reducing waste
- Supports vibrant colors, health, and growth with added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients
- Does not cloud water when used properly, maintaining water clarity and quality
Cons:
- Slightly larger pellet size (9mm) may be less suitable for very small or delicate fish
- Requires careful feeding to avoid overfeeding and water pollution
- Limited to bottom-feeding species; not ideal for mid or top dwellers
TetraPond Pond Flakes Fish Food for Goldfish and Koi (6.35 Ounces)
TetraPond Pond Flakes Fish Food is an excellent choice for small outdoor goldfish and koi because it provides a complete, nutritionally balanced diet that supports their overall health and vibrant coloration. Formulated scientifically, it boosts the immune system, promotes energy, and encourages longevity. The easy-to-eat flakes are highly digestible, which reduces waste and helps maintain water clarity. Suitable for all life stages, especially small breeds, it evolves smoothly to other TetraPond feeds as fish grow. Feeding 1-2 times daily when water exceeds 50°F ensures your fish stay healthy and colorful, while keeping pond water clean and clear.
Best For: hobbyists with small outdoor goldfish and koi seeking a nutritious, water-friendly, and easy-to-digest fish food to enhance their fish’s health and coloration.
Pros:
- Scientifically formulated to support immune health, energy, and longevity.
- Highly digestible flakes that reduce waste and help maintain water clarity.
- Suitable for all life stages, especially small breeds, with easy transition to other TetraPond feeds.
Cons:
- Not ideal for water temperatures below 39°F; requires seasonal switching.
- Needs to be fed 1-2 times daily, which may require consistent monitoring.
- May not be suitable for larger or more aggressive fish without transitioning to other food types.
API GOLDFISH FLAKES Fish Food .36-Ounce Container
The API Goldfish Flakes Fish Food in the .36-ounce container stands out as an excellent choice for goldfish owners seeking a versatile, nutritionally balanced diet. Made by Mars Fishcare, it suits all goldfish breeds and life stages, plus other popular species like tetras and cichlids. The small flakes sink quickly, making feeding easy for different sizes and behaviors. Packed with high-quality ingredients such as spirulina, garlic, and vitamins, it promotes vibrant color, growth, and digestive health. Its unique formula reduces ammonia production and waste, helping maintain cleaner water. Many users praise its effectiveness for healthier, more colorful fish and overall water quality.
Best For: fish owners seeking a nutritious, versatile, and easy-to-feed diet for all goldfish breeds and other freshwater species like tetras and cichlids.
Pros:
- Contains high-quality ingredients such as spirulina, garlic, and vitamins for vibrant color and healthy growth
- Promotes cleaner water by reducing ammonia production and waste
- Suitable for all life stages and various fish sizes with small, sinking flakes
Cons:
- Flakes may be too large for the tiniest fish or very small species
- Overfeeding can cause water cloudiness or excess waste
- Some users may prefer different formulations for specific fish health needs
Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 2lb – Koi Food Mini Growth Formula
If you’re looking for a reliable food option for small koi and goldfish, Blue Ridge Koi Fish Food 2lb with its mini growth formula is an excellent choice. These floating pellets are specially designed for fish 5 inches or smaller, promoting healthy growth and vigor. They contain high-quality proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals that support immune health and reduce stress. Suitable for all seasons, including colder months, these pellets soften quickly for easy digestion. Blue Ridge’s commitment to quality ensures your fish stay in top condition, and their satisfaction guarantee provides peace of mind. This food truly supports your pond fish’s overall well-being.
Best For: pond owners with small koi and goldfish (5 inches or smaller) seeking a nutritious, all-season food to promote healthy growth and vitality.
Pros:
- Supports healthy growth and immune system with high-quality proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
- Suitable for all seasons, including colder months, ensuring year-round nutrition.
- Floating pellets soften quickly for easy digestion and feeding convenience.
Cons:
- May not be ideal for larger or adult koi and goldfish requiring different nutritional needs.
- Slightly more expensive compared to basic fish foods.
- Limited to small-sized fish, so not versatile for all pond fish sizes.
Tetra ColorPlus Fish Food Flakes, Tropical Flakes
For tropical fish enthusiasts seeking vibrant color and overall health, Tetra ColorPlus Fish Food Flakes, Tropical Flakes, is an excellent staple choice. I appreciate how it promotes natural coloration with carotene-rich ingredients, enhancing pink to orange-red hues. Its balanced nutrition supports fish development, immune health, and longevity through the ProCare blend of vitamins and minerals. The micro-milled formula ensures high digestibility, reducing waste and keeping water clearer. Designed for all life stages, these flakes float well, making feeding easy. I recommend feeding 2-3 times daily, only as much as fish can eat in minutes, to maintain water quality and fish vitality.
Best For: tropical fish enthusiasts seeking a nutritious, color-enhancing staple food suitable for all life stages and breed sizes.
Pros:
- Promotes vibrant natural coloration with carotene-rich ingredients
- High digestibility reduces waste and maintains clearer water
- Supports overall fish health, immune system, and longevity
Cons:
- May require careful portioning to prevent excess waste and filter buildup
- Flakes are large and may not be ideal for very small or delicate fish
- Some users note the presence of dye in the food, necessitating moderation
Tetra Pond Fish Food Sticks
Tetra Pond Fish Food Sticks stand out as an excellent choice for outdoor pond owners seeking a nutritious, easy-to-digest option for their koi and goldfish. These soft floating sticks are designed specifically for pond fish, providing balanced nutrition that promotes energy, health, and longevity. They’re ideal for daily feeding when water temperatures are above 50°F. Because they’re highly digestible and produce less waste, they help keep your pond water cleaner. I recommend these sticks for their convenience and effectiveness in supporting a healthy pond ecosystem, making them a reliable choice for outdoor fish enthusiasts.
Best For: outdoor pond owners seeking a nutritious, easy-to-digest food for koi and goldfish to promote health and maintain water quality.
Pros:
- Provides balanced, healthy nutrition that supports fish energy, longevity, and overall health
- Soft floating sticks that are easy for pond fish to eat and digest
- Produces less waste, helping to keep pond water clearer and cleaner
Cons:
- Suitable only for water temperatures above 50°F, limiting year-round use in colder climates
- May require daily feeding to maintain optimal fish health during active seasons
- Comes in a relatively small quantity (3.53 ounces), which might necessitate frequent repurchasing for larger ponds
Kaytee Kois Choice Koi Floating Fish Food, 10 Pound
Kaytee Kois Choice Koi Floating Fish Food, 10 Pound, stands out as an excellent option for pond owners who want a nutritionally complete and versatile food for their koi, goldfish, and other pond fish. Its floating pellets are highly digestible and suitable for all seasons, supporting growth, vibrant color, and overall health. With 35% protein from fish meal, plus essential animal and vegetable proteins, fish oil, wheat germ, and alfalfa meal, it promotes tissue development and cognitive function. The large bag offers great value, and fish readily accept it, making it a reliable choice for maintaining a healthy, thriving pond ecosystem.
Best For: pond and aquarium owners seeking a nutritionally complete, floating fish food that supports growth, coloration, and overall health for koi, goldfish, and other pond fish of all sizes and ages.
Pros:
- Highly digestible floating pellets suitable for all seasons and life stages.
- Contains 35% protein with fish meal as the primary ingredient, promoting tissue and muscle development.
- Large 10-pound bag offers great value and supports ongoing pond health and feeding needs.
Cons:
- Not recommended for water temperatures below 40°F, limiting use in very cold climates.
- Requires careful feeding to avoid overfeeding, which can impact water quality.
- Some users may prefer higher-end or specialized formulas for specific health or color enhancement.
TetraPond Koi Vibrance Soft Sticks, Floating Pond Fish Food
If you’re looking for a fish food that promotes vibrant coloration and healthy growth in outdoor pond fish, TetraPond Koi Vibrance Soft Sticks is an excellent choice. These floating sticks are specially formulated for koi, goldfish, and other outdoor species, providing balanced nutrition for energy, longevity, and overall health. Rich in vitamins, amino acids, fats, and fiber, the food enhances color, supports digestion, and boosts vigor. Fish love how soft and easy to eat these sticks are, especially for toothless or small fish. Feeding 2-3 times daily, this highly digestible food helps keep water clear and fish vibrant all season long.
Best For: pond hobbyists seeking to enhance the color, health, and vitality of koi, goldfish, and outdoor pond fish through a highly digestible and nutrient-rich floating food.
Pros:
- Promotes vibrant coloration, especially reds and yellows, and healthy growth
- Soft, floating sticks easy for toothless or small fish to consume and digest
- Highly digestible formula helps keep water clear and reduces waste
Cons:
- Suitable only for water temperatures above 50°F; not recommended below 39°F
- Contains specific nutrients tailored for certain species, may not suit all pond fish diets
- Larger packages may be less convenient for small pond setups or casual hobbyists
TetraPro Tropical Fish Food (7.41 Ounces)
For tropical fish keepers seeking a high-quality, nutritious option, TetraPro Tropical Fish Food (7.41 ounces) stands out as an excellent choice. Its tropical formulation delivers advanced nutrition, with a low-heat process that preserves essential vitamins and nutrients. Enriched with biotin, it supports immune health and vibrant coloration through natural color enhancers. The clear-water, easy-to-digest formula reduces waste, helping maintain water quality. Its floating crisps give fish longer feeding time, ensuring they consume more food for better health. Overall, TetraPro offers a balanced, appealing, and efficient option for keeping tropical fish healthy, colorful, and thriving.
Best For: tropical fish keepers seeking a nutritious, vibrant, and easy-to-digest food that promotes water quality and fish health.
Pros:
- Contains natural color enhancers to boost fish vibrancy
- Preserves essential vitamins and nutrients through low-heat processing
- Helps maintain water clarity by reducing waste with its digestible formula
Cons:
- May be more expensive than basic fish foods
- Floating crisps require careful feeding to prevent overfeeding
- Some fish may prefer different textures or flavors
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fish Food (Tropical, Goldfish)

When selecting fish food, I always consider the specific needs of tropical fish and goldfish to make certain of compatibility. It’s important to balance nutritional content, determine appropriate feeding amounts, and account for seasonal changes and water quality. These factors help me provide the best care and keep my fish healthy and vibrant.
Fish Species Compatibility
Choosing the right fish food depends heavily on the species you keep, as each has unique dietary requirements and behaviors. It’s essential to select foods formulated specifically for your fish, such as goldfish or tropical species, to meet their nutritional needs. Compatibility also involves considering their size; smaller fish need tiny flakes or pellets, while larger ones like koi require bigger pellets. Some foods are designed for all life stages, so they’re suitable for juveniles, adults, and aging fish. Bottom feeders prefer sinking pellets or wafers, whereas surface feeders do best with floating flakes or crisps. Using species-appropriate food helps prevent digestive issues, reduces water pollution, and promotes vibrant coloration and overall health. Tailoring your choice ensures your fish thrive in their environment.
Nutritional Content Balance
Selecting the right fish food involves carefully balancing its nutritional content to meet your fish’s specific needs. A good diet should have the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals tailored to your fish’s age and species. Herbivores need more plant-based ingredients, while carnivores require higher protein levels. Balancing nutrients supports growth, vibrant coloration, immune health, and energy levels, preventing deficiencies or excesses that could harm your fish. Additionally, choosing highly digestible ingredients reduces waste and water pollution, keeping the tank cleaner. Natural color enhancers like carotenoids or spirulina can boost coloration without artificial dyes. Ultimately, a well-balanced diet promotes overall health and longevity, making careful selection essential for happy, thriving tropical fish and goldfish.
Feeding Frequency & Portions
Feeding your fish the right amount at the right times helps keep them healthy and your tank clean. I recommend feeding tropical fish and goldfish 2-3 times daily, offering only as much food as they can eat within 3-5 minutes. Overfeeding leads to waste and water quality issues, so portion control is essential. Adjust the amount based on your fish’s size, age, and activity level—bigger or more active fish need slightly more. In colder months or when water temperatures drop, reduce both feeding frequency and portions since their metabolism slows down. Keep an eye on your fish’s behavior and leftover food to gauge proper portions. Monitoring these factors helps guarantee they get enough nutrition without polluting their environment.
Water Quality Impact
Since fish food directly affects water quality, it’s vital to consider how different formulas impact your tank’s environment. Fish foods that produce less waste help keep water cleaner by minimizing organic buildup and dissolved toxins, which can harm fish. Easily digestible formulas reduce uneaten food, lowering water cloudiness and preventing algae overgrowth. Floating pellets or flakes make it easier to monitor feeding and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to excess debris. High-quality fish foods contain water-soluble nutrients that support fish health without increasing nutrient runoff that pollutes the water. Proper portioning and feeding frequency are also essential, as overfeeding can quickly deteriorate water conditions and impact fish health. Choosing the right food helps maintain a stable, healthy aquatic environment.
Season & Temperature Needs
Water temperature plays a essential role in determining the best fish food for your tropical fish and goldfish, as it directly influences their metabolism and activity levels. Most tropical fish thrive in water between 75°F and 80°F, which supports ideal digestion and growth. In colder months, fish slow down and enter torpor, so I recommend feeding them easily digestible, nutrient-rich foods tailored for lower temperatures. Many pond foods are season-specific, with spring and fall formulas designed for cooler water, and summer formulas that enhance growth and coloration. During winter, when water drops below 50°F, switching to sinking pellets or winter diets with high digestibility is key. Also, I adjust feeding frequency and portions to prevent overfeeding and water pollution, especially in cooler temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Feed My Tropical and Goldfish?
You’re wondering how often to feed your tropical fish and goldfish, right? I recommend feeding them small amounts twice a day, ensuring they can finish the food within a few minutes. Overfeeding can cause water quality issues, so it’s better to give just enough. Keep an eye on their behavior and adjust if needed. Consistent, moderate feeding helps keep your fish healthy and happy.
What Ingredients Are Best for Maintaining Fish Color and Health?
Imagine a bustling marketplace in ancient Greece—vibrant colors everywhere. That’s how I see my fish’s environment when I want to keep their colors bright and health ideal. I choose foods rich in carotenoids, spirulina, and astaxanthin, which boost pigmentation and immune health. Fresh, high-quality ingredients like fish meal and algae enhance their vitality, ensuring they stay lively and colorful, just like that lively marketplace.
Is It Necessary to Vary Fish Food Types Regularly?
Varying your fish’s food is definitely important. I’ve found that switching up their diet prevents nutritional gaps and keeps them interested and healthy. Different foods provide unique nutrients, so I make sure to offer a mix of flakes, pellets, and occasional treats like frozen or live foods. This variety supports their color, immune system, and overall well-being. Trust me, it makes a noticeable difference in your fish’s vibrancy and activity!
How Do I Prevent Overfeeding and Water Pollution?
To prevent overfeeding and water pollution, I recommend feeding your fish only what they can eat in a few minutes. I avoid giving too much at once and remove any uneaten food promptly. Regular water changes and maintaining good filtration help keep the water clean. Monitoring your fish’s behavior and adjusting feeding habits accordingly guarantees they stay healthy without polluting their environment.
Are Specialized Foods Needed for Different Fish Growth Stages?
They say, “You are what you eat,” and that’s true for fish too. I believe specialized foods really matter for different growth stages. Young fish need high-protein foods to develop properly, while mature fish benefit from balanced diets that keep them healthy. Using age-appropriate food helps prevent overfeeding and guarantees ideal growth, which is key to a thriving aquarium. So, yes, tailor their diet to their age and needs.
Conclusion
So, choosing the right fish food is like selecting the perfect quill for your handwriting—essential and personal. Whether you’re feeding vibrant tropical fish or graceful goldfish, considering factors like ingredients and ease of feeding helps guarantee their health and happiness. Remember, as I once read from an ancient codex, “A well-fed fish is a happy fish.” With these expert-approved options, you’ll keep your aquatic friends thriving, no matter if you’re in the age of digital or the dawn of the Renaissance.