Mollies for algae control

[Robert Binz]

I’m having a heck of a time controlling the GHA in my 5g reef. Nutrients are low which is throwing me for a loop.

Got some crabs (emerald and hermit) and they aren’t helping.

I am thinking of throwing in a Molly to see if it can help. (Post acclimation).

I’ve read they prefer flakes so I’m just going to not feed it as long as there’s GHA in the tank. My question is whether keeping it hungry so it eats the GHA is abusive or just mimicking nature.

 

[Peace River]

I would suggest that there is a difference between hungry and starving. If you choose that route, then you may consider feeding the molly a maintenance diet.

 

[Celestion]

Absolutely no , there ugly for one thing , in the wild you dont see them on reefs ever....lol

 

[Celestion]

And marine strenth water is to hi for molly's to enjoy a happy life...your good with brackish ..cheers

 

[harper]

My mollies eat algae but don't make any dent. I would try something else. Personally find turbo snails and emerald crabs to be the best for hair algae. My living fish store I really like the sea hares never tried. I do like the mollies as they are utterly fearless and seem to come other fish. And the babies make good food for your other fish.

 

[vtecintegra]

My molly roots around in the sand, but I don't see it eating any algae on the rocks. But I feed twice a day, and it always takes its share. Its pretty plump, and isn't under fed by any means.