How to Feed Duckweed to Tilapia

Duckweed is the common name for plants of the genus Lemna. It is a floating plant found in fresh waters in most temperate and tropical locales in the world. Aquarium hobbyists know it by another word: pest. Duckweed grows quickly, so if it isn't managed, it can take over the surface of a tank and block all light from getting to other plants in the tank. One simple way to control duckweed is to feed it to a herbivorous fish, such as tilapia.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Aquarium net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase duckweed from a local fish store or online retailer. Most shops or sites that sell aquarium plants will have some for sale. You can also buy duckweed at an auction sponsored by a local aquarium club. Some friendly hobbyists may even give the duckweed to you for free just to get rid of it.

    • 2

      Place the duckweed in a 10- to 20-gallon freshwater tank without fish. Turn the tank light on for 12 hours to mimic a natural light cycle. Change the tank water at least once a week to replenish nutrients for the duckweed to grow.

    • 3

      Collect the duckweed with an aquarium net. Dip the net into the water and move it to gather a baseball-sized clump.

    • 4

      Transfer the collected duckweed to your aquarium with the tilapia.