Are algae wafers necessary?

[anonymous314]

My Rubberlip, that I've had for over two weeks, has yet to show any interest in Hikari algae wafers or Wardley Spirulina discs, But He does take vegetables very well.
His favorite is cucumber, I'll put a slice in weighted with a SS wingnut and by morning he's eaten out most of the inside of the slice, with just a little left near the peel, And He's only about 2 inches! (5 cm)
He also Likes Zucchini, Grapes (Quartered), and Sweet Potato.
So, can Plecs live on Veg alone? If so, what combinations are reccommended for seeing to thier long term nutritional needs?

 

[Lornek8]

It all boils down to them getting adequate nutrition. I don't think enough research has been done to say what is specifically required for plec nutrition. The best bet is to offer them a variety of veggies to fullfill their nutritional needs. Some research on the nutritional contnet of various veggies would help to choose the most suitable.

 

[denny]

so far till this second, i use veg as main food, but watch water conditions-couse gona bad.
meaty food is needed but mild, because will be problems on plec digest.
offer just 1 - 2 times a week.
just give more of sinking pelet and bog wood.

 

[Mooo]

I would say yes wafers are necessary, as a varied diet is essential...assorted veg and wafers is ideal..
Unless its a omnivor(diet includes veg & meat)...or a carnivor (only eats meat)
Try not feeding for a day or two & introduce a wafer only...it will get used to it. cuc has nutritional value, but they should have other foods also to cover all nutrients needed...

 

[Irene0100]

I would not worry if he does not like wafers, as long as he gets variety, try some flakes or catfish pellets etc so he gets a little protein but keep on lots of veg too, peas and beans are good as more nourishment than say cucumber.

 

[Roo]

I only ever feed wafers if I have no fresh fruit available for him. They are my backup food. He loves them though.

 

[Brengun]

Younger ones do tend to like the veges moreso than a tab. They like to get down and dirty in the vegs and its hard to balance on a wafer. :lol: