Plant Matter:
* Algae: This is a crucial part of their diet. They love to graze on algae growing on rocks, plants, and the aquarium walls.
* Aquatic plants: They enjoy eating the leaves and stems of plants like water sprite, hornwort, and java fern.
* Spirulina: This is a type of algae that's often found in fish flakes and pellets.
* Vegetable flakes: Some commercial fish flakes are specifically formulated for mollies and include vegetable ingredients.
Animal Matter:
* Live food: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and mosquito larvae are all popular live foods for mollies.
* Frozen food: Frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp are convenient alternatives to live food.
* Fish flakes and pellets: Many commercial fish flakes and pellets are formulated for omnivores like mollies and contain a mix of plant and animal matter.
Important Note: Mollies are prone to bloating, so it's important to avoid overfeeding them. They should be fed only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.
Here are some tips for feeding your mollies:
* Offer a variety of foods to ensure a balanced diet.
* Feed them small amounts several times a day, rather than one large meal.
* Watch their eating habits and adjust their diet accordingly.
* Keep their tank clean to prevent the buildup of uneaten food and waste, which can contribute to water quality issues.
By providing a varied and balanced diet, you can help your mollies thrive and stay healthy.