The TLDR:
- New frozen food auto feeder
- Crowdfunding to begin in May
- The excepted retail price is $700
- 1-year warranty
- Expected release = Q1 2026
Last weekend at RAP Dallas 2025, Manta Systems unveiled a new frozen food auto feeder design. This model holds up to 72 cubes of frozen food using a carousel-based design and stores them at 12°F (-11°C). It can be programmed using an app via Bluetooth or WiFi to dispense cubes of frozen food at designated times. The unit can also function without an app/WiFi using preset schedules, but of course, the app allows users to have real-time notifications, control, etc. It can also easily integrate with popular aquarium controllers.
A look at the app’s user interface displaying temperature tracking capabilities.
The unit touts near silent operation and is constructed using an 80×80 variable speed exterior fan with stainless steel screws, bottom vents, multiple side vents, rubber gaskets capable of fitting 2″ tank rims, 24 embedded magnets, and a water-tight electrical compartment. The polycarbonate plastic food carousel can be removed for cleaning. It is 7.9″ tall, 11.8″ long and 10.3″ wide. It weighs 6.1 lbs. The unit has three temperature sensors as well as optical emitters/sensors to ensure food delivery and temperature.
Front view of the unit.
This model comes with integrated systems to help prevent failed food drops, which consist of a laser sensor that can determine if a cube was or was not dispensed. Once the sensor detects a potential issue, it will attempt another feeding from the same column. If the unit still fails to eject a cube from that column of the carousel, it will rotate to the next column and try again (subtracting the failed feeding attempt from the total food count). Users with apps will then receive an update detailing the issue.
The unit has also been designed to maintain a freezing temperature for up to one hour after the power goes out. If the food is thawed the device will end feedings and send app based users a notification.
Back view of the unit.
Another helpful feature is the unit has a plunger based design that breaks apart any frozen cubes which may be stuck together. Once a cube is successfully dispensed it will thaw in the feeding cup and fall through holes allowing small pieces of the food to enter the system instead of an entire cube.
This product will undergo a crowdfunding campaign starting in May. Manta Systems reports they expect the unit to retail for $700 and the unit will come with a 1 year warranty. It is expected to ship to the public Q1 of 2026.
Side view of the unit.
In my mind, this unit has the potential to revolutionize food delivery in the aquarium trade. Other frozen food auto feeders that have popped up in recent years have had notoriously steep supply chain issues resulting in poor market penetration. If this model can overcome those problems, I can see it making waves. The only potential concern I have is the build-up of biofilms/potential growth of bacteria in the feeding cup. Based on what I have read and seen, it seems the feeding cup is kept at ambient temperatures in order to thaw the food. If this piece of the unit is not regularly cleaned, it could become a Vibrio factory quite easily. Keep in mind that details about this device are just coming onto the scene, so this take may be based on a misunderstanding about the device.
