I agree with everyone, I feed my guys a combination of frozen cubes, and pellets, alternating in different days. Just like any other animal they tend to get used to the conditioning of a certain kind of food. If you vary it they will start to become opportunistic feeders. The pellets that I use are the Hikari small pellets, my fish seem to like it. And if you are going to be gone for a long time, definitely consider all the previous suggestions. Auto topoff, food conditioning, get a timer for your lights. I love my tank, but extended vacations are pretty much out of the question, unless I get someone to come watch the tank (hopefully someone that will know what to do) ZBest of luck