Bonochick

I gave my fish some cucumber for the first time on Saturday, and they loved it. I put it in at 4:30, and I took it out when I went to bed at 10:00. I felt bad because my barbs had still been picking at it, but I didn't know if it would be safe to leave it in the tank overnight, I didn't want it to start rotting or something. Opinions?

Dino

I remove anything left by the 24 hour mark.
Leaving it in over night would not be a problem.

jmark419

I agree with the 24 hour rule. I have a gold spot pleco and he loves the cucumber. I just tried it for the first time last night and by morning just the outer ring was left. I am wondering how much or how big a piece to put in without over feeding. Should the cucumber just be a treat every now and then?

Dino

I fed zuc's several times a week, with no problems.
Cuk's are a little messier than I can to deal with.

jmark419

I am gonna try the Zuk too. Also saw a picture of a pleco eating a mellon as well.

sick-lid boy

In my case, cucumber lasts about 30 seconds when my Oscar discovers it and gobbles it up like it's his last meal. He just understand the concept of veggies for the catfish, pellets and shrimp for him.

COBettaCouple

Dino has spoken! The fish aliens won't like it should that cucumber be in there more than 24 hours! i think after that amount of time, the cucumber will start releasing nitrites.

Dino

Not only that, but it becomes a pain to remove from the tank.
It gets so mushy, I usually siphon it out.

Bonochick

Thanks! You've surely made my fish happy, now that I won't be swiping their snack so soon.