When purchasing live foods for your tank, many people simply take the shop employee’s advice when handed a jar of unidentified copepods for their reef tank. Most do not research into the different species of copepods, we just understand that they are a major element of our clean up crews and that our fish love snacking on them. But, what if you want to actually make sure you are getting the best option available, and not just whatever the local fish shop has in stock this week? Many aquarists turn to buy the copepods online for this reason, as online retailers typically understand the differences between species and explain them on each individual product’s page. After reading the pages of each individual species, many are left wondering “what do copepods eat?” Aside from detritus and fish food, most species we add to our tanks also eat algae and phytoplankton. But, there is also about a half dozen species of phyto available to hobbyists. Here, we will go into detail on each species and their benefits to your tank. These live foods can be added to your tank to do more than just feed microfauna. Phytoplankton in and of itself discourages nuisance algae growth and coral polyp extension and feeding!
Isochrysis Galbana
Iso is a mobile alga, two flagella are used for locomotion. It is high in DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid), which plays a major role in nervous system development. Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid found in these single-celled algae, is being found to make cancer and tumor cells undergo programmed cell death. In addition, Fucoxanthin was shown to reduce weight and decrease insulin resistance in animals diagnosed with obesity. And let’s be honest, we all have some fish that are a little chubby! Due to its nutritional value, it is one of the phytoplankton used to enrich copepods, Brine, mysids, rotifers, or other live foods to make them more beneficial to the consumers. Iso is also one of the most prominent feeds used in bivalve (such as clam) hatchery facilities due to its nutritional profile. So, this is a great option for feeding your tank! Nearly all bivalves, corals, and filter feeders will accept Isochrysis.
Nannochloropsis
This is a genus comprised of 6 different species that can only be distinguished from one another by genetic sequence analysis. Because of this, most cultures contain more than one species of Nano. Unlike Iso, these algae are not mobile and can actually be found in fresh, brackish, and full saltwater environments. As such, freshwater clams and filter feeders can also benefit from the freshwater cultures of Nano. Nannochloropsis is able to accumulate huge amounts of astaxanthin, a pigment that improves red, yellow, and orange coloration. Zeaxanthin is carotenoid alcohol, and can also be found in Nano. It is also a pigment that enhances red, yellow, and orange colors. Spirulina is another source of this pigment. Finally, the pigment Canthaxanthin is also present in this phytoplankton. As with the other two substances, it enhances gold, yellow, and orange colors. Nano is also rich in EPA. Basically, this phytoplankton can help your livestock’s pink, red, orange, and yellow colors deepen and pop. Who doesn’t love naturally brilliantly colored animals?
Due to the fast-growing and quick reproduction of Nano, it can be added to the aquarium to hinder the growth of unwanted pest algae. It will easily outcompete these other species and is easily caught and consumed by all filter feeders, so it will not become a nuisance in and of itself. These properties, along with its three-month shelf life when refrigerated, make it a top choice for aquarists. So, what do copepods eat? Well, this phytoplankton may be one of the best options!
Tetraselmis Suecica
Tet is single-celled, motile algae. Although not as much information is easily available on this species, it is known to be rich in lipids, DHA, EPA, and arginine. Arginine is an important amino acid, as it is a neurotransmitter that aids in blood circulation. It also has a role in injury healing, removing toxins like ammonia from the body, and maintaining a healthy immune system. To keep your fish and inverts in top shape, it is easy to understand why an arginine-rich diet is beneficial. It is also one of the most carbohydrate-rich microalgae, which means it has more digestible glucose than other phytoplankton. Pods and other foods enriched with Tet are an easy addition to your feeding regimen that can keep your fish as healthy as possible!
Thalassiosira Weissflogii
Also occurring in fresh, brackish, and full saltwater, Thal is technically a diatom that is not motile. It can grow in less-than-stellar water conditions, including in chlorinated water! Iron, nickel, zinc, nitrogen, and silicates are all used by Thalassiosira, and these are limiting factors for its growth. This means if you discover that you have high metal concentrations in your tank through ICP or lab testing, adding Thal can greatly benefit your tank by removing these potential dangers. Due to the fact that it actively uses and depletes silicate in aquaria, it can be dosed to outcompete nuisance diatoms that grow over our sand and rocks. Thal is preferred by many filter feeders as it is larger in size than the other species on this list and can be used by older fry and larval invertebrates. And, individuals attach to one another and can form longer chains of Thal, so even the coarsest of filter feeders can utilize this species.
Closing Thoughts
As we can see from the above information, live phytoplankton has many benefits to offer your tank and livestock. If you find yourself wondering “what do copepods eat,” “what else can I feed my corals,” “how can I grow my pod population,” or “what are some natural defenses to nuisance algae” it may be time to look towards implementing a dosing regimen for phytoplankton. If you want to get the best bang for your buck, many companies are now offering mixed-species cultures to feed your livestock, so you get the benefits of each individual phyto. Some even include species not covered in this article, but these four types are some of the most prominent and beneficial ones available to hobbyists.
Robert Cleary says
Hw often do I feed it on an average week . How do I know if is dead
Shawn Wells says
I feed 2 ounces a night per 50 gal. Will start to turn yellow and less dark green. Just shake and dont allow to settle to the bottom for long periods of time. I shake my hugs in the morning and at night.
John says
+1 on this reply
Alex Jeffords says
I agree
Tray Carter says
+1
Ward renders says
1+
Sydney Monroe says
+1
swainge says
+1
Jamie says
Good info to know
Casey222kc says
Me tooooo
Casey222kc says
Me tooooo
Casey222kc says
Me tooooo
mikerosa1965 says
+1 on this
sylerbem2535 says
+1
Robert Babineau says
Sounds good
Robert Babineau says
Sounds good
Menezes Industries says
+1
Amdrew Haslem says
Thanks for the tips!
James says
Thanks for the tips!
Regina Heitschmidt says
Good to know. Thank you!
paulmatthewguilliam says
Sounds good
Sandra morrow says
i agree with this too
Larry says
+3
Sandra morrow says
+2
Kamden Sveum says
thats wierd
kegan233 says
Awesome
amandakuchyt says
???
Kirsten L. Bailey says
Love a well populated tank!
Miyoshi Hemingway says
I haven’t received mine in the mail yet; supposed to be delivered tonight. I am looking so forward to using it; I can’t wait to see how my Derasa likes it.
Bret Petri says
My ultra blue maxima loves it.
Bret Petri says
My ultra blue maxima loves it.
TOMAS SALCEDO says
I need to start this.
Trudy S. says
I’ve been thinking the same thing
teddy97711 says
Thanks !
amandakuchyt says
Thanks for the info!
ketchup299 says
good to know
Tom says
1+
Benjamin Priest says
Good tip, Thanks!
Carlos Matias-Tejada says
thanks for the info. just recently ordered some phyto for my pods.
Carlos Matias-Tejada says
thanks for the tip! had two bottles laying in the fridge i have not kept up with…
anthonysdad says
ty
Garrett Johnson says
also agree
jackbauer24.1 says
Good to know
Joseph Ly says
+1
Patrick says
+1 on this! I’ve kept bottles too long and they are wasted.
paul stiles says
+1
paul stiles says
+1
Rhett Unbehagen says
What about for smaller systems like less than 20 gallons
Justin Blanchard says
Spot on!
Hector says
+1 with this reply
Thanh Le says
+1 like
Logan Miller says
+1
Greg Leinweber says
Same
Ian says
Thanks Shawn
s.n.rfarms says
Great information
s.n.rfarms says
Great information
Shawn Wells says
I feed 2 ounces a night per 50 gal. Will start to turn yellow and less dark green. Just shake and dont allow to settle to the bottom for long periods of time. I shake my hugs in the morning and at night.
LAz says
twice a week, I do anyway…
Michael Luong says
Nice
lindsaymmarino says
Great!
james.faber says
I feed my 180gal reef tank one capsule per day,
That seems to do the trick
Branden says
I feed once a week with phyto and once a month with pods!
jenachristicarter says
Do you find that your pods are reproducing? Or do you have to keep buying more?
Gerardo Barbaro Santamarina says
I use it every month with great outcome in my tank.
daryl norrell says
Sweet
Regina Heitschmidt says
Good question. I would like to know as well.
Regina Heitschmidt says
Good question. I would like to know as well.
thayer yasin says
Yes, I keep my jar floating in the tank
Nick says
Just starting using the product.
steve rivara says
Nice
Kamden Sveum says
wow
Jason says
Awesome
evan wagman says
yas queen
evan wagman says
yas queen
busniauskas says
Keep it refrigerated
Chris Zachariasse says
Feed One to two
Tanya says
Yes I agree
Caleb A Bates says
+1
thayer yasin says
Every two day I put 25% of the can
Michelle says
I agree
Craig Hammer says
Good question… would like to know myself.
superpickle01 says
Thanks for the information
Xbandit27 says
I do 3 time a week
Xbandit27 says
I do 3x per week!
Diana Alipradi says
I’d like to know when it’s time to throw out my bottles when it’s passes the expiration date.
William Ludwig says
On my 120 gal tank I feed 50 ml every other day. On my new 225 upgrade tank, I will feed more. I am currently going thru a Dino issue and I dose 150 ml daily to help combat the dinos. As it was said already, make sure it doens’t settle on the bottom. I shake the bottoms up every day to make sure it doesn’t settle.
Tristen says
+1
Tristen says
wow, i did not know this
Gregory Struthers says
Following…..
Justin Blanchard says
Awesome information, thanks guys!
johnathan gorman says
Good question
robincristy86 says
Thanks
robincristy86 says
Thanks
Thanh Le says
Like
L says
+1
Josh Hiltabiddle says
Dig it. Need PODS
dan zoll says
me too
Joy Chadwick says
I learn something new everyday with saltwater aquariums!!!
Vance Henson says
Same here. Lots of good info out there. as well as some not so good.
Ashley Wong says
Seriously!
shoyabskhan says
same here
Brad montgomery says
How much should we be dosing?
Ryan bissell says
I was wondering that same thing!
Bobby says
Entry number 100. Maybe this time…lol
Dan says
There you go
Bobby says
Entry number 100. Maybe this time…lol
Jamie Robertson says
me as well
Bret Petri says
I typically dose 60ml per day between direct feeding corals, target feeding my maxima and into the sump as pod food.
Ray Haley says
Me too!
Micah says
Doing a fully sterile tank. This would be great timing.
jamie.weatherman says
What do you mean by fully sterile tank? I’ve never heard of that before
jamie.weatherman says
What do you mean by fully sterile tank? I’ve never heard of that before
david w sheffield says
Probably everything dry/quarentined/dipped before it goes into the system.
Matthew Novak says
More pods more better
Frank says
me tooo!!!
aquamane says
Same here
David Rutherford says
Me to
David says
I need some to just don’t know what kind and how much
Shawn Borg says
I like pods
Dana Hernandez says
Pods are cool lil dudes!!!
yummers1 says
Me too
Kaylie says
Awesome, in depth look at phyto! Appreciate the time you took to put this together, thank you!
Ray Haley says
I agree.
sfinnell says
That was a good read for some info I didn’t know.
randles.17 says
I agree
Matthew Armstrong says
Appreciate the time you took to put this together, thank you!
Cassandre-Leigh Klaasen says
Very informative!
Justin says
I agree!
Jay says
I need to try this stuff in my tank!
Kevin says
Live photoplankton is the most useful stuff I’ve ever put in my aquarium. Very helpful, thank you.
bambauer.m says
Agreed!
niko petrone says
it is interesting that different organisms promote different color vibrancy in corals.
Morgan says
???
fycameron62 says
Just getting started in reefing and so much to learn. Just trying to enjoy the ride.
Shanna says
I cannot wait to start my Refugium!
rayhaley says
Same here. Just started my refugium and corals are next.
Jared Friedrich says
That is why I am ordering all my macro algae and copepods from you guys because I trust what you have in them. Scary pouring a jar of stuff into your tank when you really don’t know what could be in it
Samantha Martin says
I love learning this stuff!!
JK says
INFORMATIVE
emmanuel avgoustakis says
wow impressive
emmanuel avgoustakis says
wow impressive
dakota snover says
Love the info, great products too.
Ron Primas says
I feed my reef and seahorse tank with this twice a day. Gets expensive but worth every penny with the results
James Hamilton says
Got to have it!
James Hamilton says
Got to have it!
Michael A. Huerta says
trying to grow plankton for my rotifers but it isnt growing fast enough!
Michelle DiDomenico Mitchell says
Love you guys
Armando Martinez says
Interesting read, crazy to find out what it does
Armando Martinez says
Interesting read, crazy to find out what it does
themarqker says
I love how informative this website is about all of its products allowing us to buy the best option for our aquatic friends!
Johnathan Douglaa Bell says
Hoping to win the contest!
Johnathan Douglaa Bell says
Hoping to win the contest!
Luis Perez says
Great to be informed!!! ?
Luis Perez says
Great to be informed!!! ?
Neill Jones says
Good info
Chris Koch says
nice info
Kevin Mehl says
Good info!
Jean Pattison says
I have read this over and over. I am getting ready for a refugium for pods. Thank you.
Ken Bilow says
Delicious!
Jean Pattison says
I have read this over and over. I am getting ready for a refugium for pods. Thank you.
Jean Pattison says
Not accepting my comment, so trying again. Once fuge is up and running, will be using this.
Matt Traylor says
Great article! I’ve known about these beneficial critters for a long time, but nice to see an in depth article about how important they really are!
robertfoss6109 says
Agreed
coleman.j85 says
indeed!
Jared Andrews says
Great information! Can’t wait to get pods for my new nano setup!
Mykol Newyear says
Very informative ?
Michael says
Copepods
Steven Engle Jr says
Love the help your guys and gals are doing
James says
Interesting
Justin K Thornton says
I need pods!
Kitema Byrd says
This is very informative! I’m interested in learning more.
michael m mcelroy says
I love reef aquariums would love to win one
michael m mcelroy says
I love reef aquariums would love to win one
michael m mcelroy says
love salt tanks and reef tanks would love to win one
michael m mcelroy says
lots of information on plankton love it
michael m mcelroy says
lots of information on plankton love it
michael m mcelroy says
awesome blog great information ,
michael m mcelroy says
awesome blog great information ,
Karen Johnston Nation says
so many planktons! Is zooplankton like powered reef roids not good for copepods? I bought a batch from lfs today but next time I iwll order from you guys but was in a hurry to get my yellow clown goby to eat. She sold me reef nutrituin tiggers. It says large but pretty tiny and I know they get much bigger because I have seen some in my tank already. I am afraid they will get to big for their small mouths so my questions are : how do I get them out once they get to large for them to eat If they havnt consumed them all? ? I hope I idnt make a big mistake beacause I already poured a little in there! I really didn’t want this for my 10 gallon but I would like copepods for sure for my biggertank that is almost done cycling. Can I add right after cycle to my big tank? If refrigerated how long are they good for? The bottle was package 3 weeks ago already! Tisbe probably would have been a better choice but she didint have any and I was afriad they would be to small to eat right away! Wish I could have found cyclopeeze locally or baby brine.
David Schneider says
Thanks
D Thompson says
I feel as if I learn something every time I get on here.
Christopher C Poynter says
Wondering if this will increase the growth rate of my slower-growing corals…
danieldoherty2 says
Always satisfied with Algae Barn. Packaging is always perfect and the items are all high quality. Pod it up!
Pricilla Pamment says
Can’t wait to get my order soon and make comments!
Joe says
Great stuff
Michael A. Grammar says
Phytoplankton is cool
Ben says
You’re products are awesome
Michael Matejko says
??
Michael Matejko says
?
Todd Rozenboom says
Hey your live phyto here and only here!
Lonnie Goldman says
I’m just getting back into reefing. This was a great article. Thanks
Everts Eric says
Great Article
Everts Eric says
Great Article
Ryan Ginn says
Great servicd
Kim Warren says
My mandarin loves your pods!
Steve says
I was thinking of getting some Chateo but never grew this before. Does it require intense light and what about water movement . Any help guys would be greatly appreciated ??
lady_erone says
Nanochloropsis Phyto ftw everytime here
Lisa Stuebner says
Great article! Thank you for the information!
Matt Dennison says
Really enjoy the read and the effort put into the blog…!!!
Meredith Scott says
Super good read! Im culturing my own pods, so this was very informational!
David Schneider says
Good info thanks
Aaron Vipperman says
Had your clean chaeto before, quality stuff.
Christian Bragalone says
?
Jean Pattison says
Have read this a few times as well as your other blogs. I now have a refugium light so getting close.
M says
When will you have Chaeto??
jati ngy says
Cant wait to try these tips
Eugene Mastrangeli says
Great info, thank you
William Stone says
Everything you need is right here
Jeff Biondi says
I saw a huge improvement on my tank after adding pods and feeding live phytoplankton.
Kevin Johnson says
I learned much more than I expected. Thanks for the article.
Laura Strait says
Good read! Thanks for the informative posts, keep it up.
Combat Corals says
Best Chateo hands down love natural nutrient removal
Robert Palmer says
A Lot to read and acknowledge when you are a Beginner …. I’ve bought the 4 unique 16 oz. … once a month should do it for a NEW TANK!!!~
Katie Montes says
Great info, thank you!
Sarah Michelle Morales says
Does the protein skimmer being after the refugium make a problem?
Carl C. Lusk says
Best chaeto’
Carl C. Lusk says
Nice!
Brandy Bader says
Informative read
michaelbotzenmayer says
How can you dose this with automated? How long can it survive without refrigeration?
rcillig says
I love pods….. my fish love them more than I do!
Wayne Yates says
I hear yall have best products
gothicstretch says
Best out there. Only place I get mine from!
Mike Fielder says
Can pods really reduce algae?
Jeramie Hallgren says
Great pods.
Jeramie Hallgren says
Great pods. Can’t wait for more.
Jeramie Hallgren says
My fish love it.
Shannon R Henley says
Really looking forward to receiving my pods!
Colin Klimowski says
Interesting take on the different species, seems like a good blend.
Alexis says
Can’t wait to get my order
Josimar Chali says
Well I just ordered for the first time some Pom Pom macro algae and Ecopods,I’m so exited to get my order!!!
Matthew Lunsford says
Semi new to the saltwater realm however excited to begin the journey. Currently have a 100 gallon tank setup with a 30 gallon sump/refugium!
dan zoll says
Need more pods
Tyler Henry says
Great stuff!
Brian says
How long should you wait after setting up a new tank to add pods and macro?
Dillon Deville says
Thanks for the informative post.
Adrian says
thank you
Miriam Hernandez says
can’t wait to try your pods
Steve Ozark says
Algae Barn has vest pods blend!
Darwin Almanzar says
Love pods
Stephen Torres says
Have learned so much from all your informative blog posts. And my little scooter blend loves when I get a shipment of pods from you guys!
dragonprincess74008 says
This was so informative and in-depth! I definitely want to try them!
Tyler Willam says
What do you feed it?
Cesar Santiago says
Amazing
Cesar Santiago says
Amazing product
Linh Nguyen says
Very interesting and informative article. Never thought about different types of phytoplankton species till now..
Fabian Noggle says
very interesting read
Dena Akbar says
I love learning this stuff!!
hypershrike says
Great info!
jacques says
Very knowledgeable article
Susan Sterling says
Informative article ?
Jon Heil says
Thanks for more information!
Chris K. says
Thanks for sharing some facts on phytoplankton along with photos. I’ve noticed my corals can’t get enough phytoplankton.
Randy Haines Jr. says
I love PODS
katrinkam says
Didn’t realize it would out compete other algae…good to know. Thanks
imagndat3 says
just got my delivery of pods ?
Joshua DenBoer says
I want more pods
haynpaula says
Amazing
Melanie says
Would love to win.
Vickie L Couturier says
im just getting started and all this information is so interesting and good to know
CHRISTIAN DOMINE says
Great info as usual
Tiffany Watson says
Search for info on tank feeding they said…. algae barn to the rescue… down the rabbit hole of information I will go! ?
Brandon Baumann says
Honestly did not know there were so many species of phytoplankton
Lena Berkowitz says
Neither did I.
Brandon says
markfmvl says
since these phyto are live when added to the tank, how easily do they colonize and become residents as part of the ecosystem of you tank?
Ricardo says
This is great information thank you. Now I have a better understanding ?? thanks again.
businessdegree8510@gmail.com says
Definitely will be investing in some!
businessdegree8510@gmail.com says
Definitely will be investing in some!
Robert Tirado says
Need pods for my future Mandarin.
lavishtour says
Im just adding Pods now. Do they reproduce on their own or do i have to do something to help them along?
Anthony Queen says
Just ordered some OceanMagik and Pods! Thanks
tai says
pods <3
Robert leffler says
Yes once my tanks takes off I will need this as well!!!
tyler.powell says
Good read
BENNYSAQUARIUM says
GREAT PRODUCT!
Dale Louderback says
nice contest
Joaquin Diaz says
This was a very informative blog post, like your usual. I’d like to know more about Phytoplankton, maybe a few profiles on more species. Also, profiles on fishes would be really nice. I’ve been trusting y’all advice and my reef tank looks great. Would love to see what you guys recommend for individual fish species
Mark Nicoletti says
cool
Gabby Wilson says
I didn’t know there were 6 different species of Nanno! Thanks for the info!
Marcos Ostria says
I have seen a large difference since adding phyto to my tank!
ghosttay says
not sure about this one
Daniel Paris says
Pods are starting
Juan Carlos Perez says
Seems to make my corals look better.
Maynard Anthony says
not sure if this is the right place
Shannon Pickin says
Interesting read
ryan2577p says
I want to make a small refugium in my Evo 5! I think it would help tremendously!
Devyn says
Nice
Bill Gray says
Love the info, great products too!
tcraddockjr says
How often should I order for a new refugium?
Thanay Binford says
good read
cruzryanc says
I’m happy to have found AlgaeBarn.com. Looking forward to my one stop shop for all of my aquarium needs.
Francisco says
I need to try and cultivate more pods!
Lisa McNinch says
Thank you for all the great and thorough info! Im new to sw and this is very helpful!
ANTHONy says
?
Tanner Galmeister says
Nice!
Christina Wahrmund says
Thank you for the information!
bellboy63055 says
Love learning new stuff
Rebecca says
Loved the info thanks
Ryan says
This Phyto made my pod population explode was dosing twice a day need more will have to order again soon by far the best product I’ve used
N J says
I wonder if anyone has tried doing math about how many mL of phyto feeds enough pods to support something like the coveted dragonet?
Komi says
Thanks for the info.
Brad says
Good info!
Jessica Miller says
Impressive!
Michael Serletic says
How often would you dose for a 20L mixed reef?
dcmartinpc says
Thanks for the I depth review! Love the content you guys are putting up here!
Thiago Farias says
I really want to try these pods.
Ed Sawyer says
Need to add pods
Kevin Johnson says
Very informative. I didn’t know that there were this many types of Phyto.
flip mode says
Would love a chance to have some professional advice from y’all!
flip mode says
?
flip mode says
…
Marcelo rodriguez says
Seems like a great company that caters to its customers
Linda says
Just ordered first shipment of pods!
Tim Brown says
Is anyone else having flashbacks to AP Biology?
Tim Brown says
It’s like I went back to AP Biology in Highschool.
Edward Thayer says
I love algeabarn.
Krystal Cormier says
Love all you put into helping us have a amazing and successful setup!
Krystal Cormier says
?
David Irwin says
Love these pods, gotta place an order here soon again
David Irwin says
Love your photo and pods!
David Irwin says
*phyto
Roberto Lugo says
Good read
Edward Ullrich says
Wow, and I thought I knew Copa-pods…… great information! Thanks so much for the details.
cliffordyacapin says
Useful information about Phyto. Love it!
mistersova says
Everything I have ever gotten from here has been A+++++
My sea lettuce, clams, phyto…. such high quality
Christina Wahrmund says
Very interesting information.
Linda Montgomery says
Love to win
Bob Gardner says
wishlist item
Paul Schreck says
Pods please!
Paul Schreck says
Thank you
bigredreefer says
I am so interested in trying phyto in my tank I really think my corals would thrive from the use. but, I am nervous.
stlclipper says
looks good
Rod says
How often do I add phytoplankton?
Michael Rodrigues says
Cannot wait to get my reef tank seeded with all of this!
Gil C. says
Cleanest seller by far! PODs needed
Jason Romero says
Nice!!
Rusty says
I surely need to get some soon!
Tanner Funai says
Love the CADE products to come as well as the 5280, Pioneer Pods and of course the Apocylopse. Can’t wait to try your OceanMagik phytoplankton!
Tanner Funai says
OceanMagik Phytoplankton is a must for your corals and copepods!
randy says
good info
Andrew Harper says
Excellent info!
MastaMind82 says
Gotta love the pods!
Rick says
Thank you. Answered a lot of questions.
Chuck says
Very informative
Christina Duncan says
I can not sem to get a strong copepod colony established. Thanks for the informative article.
Ellery Wong says
Been manually dosing Nanochloropsis primarily for Tridacna clams but we’ll see if it helps with fighting other nuisance algaes.
Chris says
Wonder why so many comments. Lol. Interesting article though
Christina Barton says
Best blog ever
Donna Vassilio says
I’ve been looking into adding phytoplankton to my tank. This was very informative. Thank you!
David hatfield says
Excellent product. I highly recommend
Wesley says
Need to kick off that reefugium.
Brian says
What’s the best way to clean out refugium without killing my pods?
Mark Powell says
I have used there products and wow my tank come alive . I recommend there products.
Tanner Funai says
AlgaBarn’s Phytoplankton rocks!
Jonathan Smith says
Need this always
Winston Van Essendelft says
I’m def gonna need to re-read this when I officially get my tank set up. Very informative.
Robert Smartt says
Im a newb so all these informative blogs are a wealth
Chance says
Awesome
Elli Hayes says
I’m visiting your website and can’t wait to try your products!
joe says
time to seed my new system
Jennifer Lye says
Amazing stuff! My tank started growing once I started dosing correctly.
Andrew says
I’m super excited foe my first batch of mixed pods. Mandarin is going to love this!
Phyllis Skoglund says
Well I’ve been looking for more information on SALT WATER REVIVALS all my salt life. I’be been living in and by the ocean for the past 20 years.
maahans says
Great information thank you
Patricia Cole says
I’d like to know as well
Mr Papu says
Looking to add these to my new refugium!
Gabriel Nunez says
More articles please!
kevin w says
I desperately need to try Ocean Magic and pods.
Leslie Collard says
Ready to give this a try at fighting cyano
Austin says
Cool article, I need to start building a population in my tank.
Austin says
?
Austin says
Nice article
maos says
Pods save the queen
James Curtis says
I could use this the captive mandarin goby i got from you all would love some more food.
Andrew Haslem says
Excellent Article!
Marco Pena says
Wow awesome info!!
Jake says
Interesting read!
Trevor says
Never can have enough pods.
William umphlett says
Thanks for the info, I am new to saltwater and this was very informative
Jeremy says
Refugium is a great addition to any reef tank
Natasha Brodsky says
Thanks for the information. I have been wondering about this.
Derek Ruble says
??
Derek Ruble says
????
Brandon Rush says
Photo for the win!
devon maynard says
Awesome article I love the science behind things.
Kevin Jackson says
Need some pods
Gary Fletcher says
Interesting
Gary Fletcher says
This is an interesting read.
Thelma says
Great read! Very informative!
Blump says
Looks good
Thelma says
Nice read!! Very informative! Love the science behind it all!!
Justis says
?
Glen says
Great information! Didn’t know the tiny played such a huge role in a healthy tank. Thank you.
Glen Morrison Jr says
Great information. I never knew the tiny played such a large part in a health tank. Thank you.
Lukas Rudis says
Thanks for the helpful information!
Mason Wilson says
Me too!
Chad Brinck says
Thanks for the info
Jeremy Pryes says
GHrat!
Alexandre says
Good article!
Emily bell says
Interesting
Emily bell says
Interesting
Shawn says
I love your products
Dee says
Great way to jump start a new system with pods
Robert Schwencke says
Plankton the other green meat
7aquamom says
Awesome Read!
Great information!
Randy Sprague says
Good read!
Kristina Rosenberg says
Love pods and photo… mine are doing excellent from Algae Barn.
Great purchase!
Cody Fisher says
i added some tiger pods. hawkfish had a field day.[
Leo Minegishi says
I really need to learn more about phyto
Tesia Oliver says
Need to order more Pods! Good info!
Jeff says
Thanks for the offer info.
Jeff says
Interesting
Mac McGinnis says
Which one
Chris says
Has anyone seen an impact on nuisance algae after using phyto ?
mterry9239 says
Yes. Mine has went down drastically. Took about 3 weeks for it to REALLY show it helps, but once it started my tank cleared up dramatically.
ron0510 says
Excellent information. I need to add phytoplankton to my reef>
Rebecca Clark says
Can’t wait to get my fuge up and going!
Marvin Garcia says
Great products and information.
Jennifer Lye says
Since I have begun feeding on a regular, my tank looks so much happier!
Michael Quinones says
Does phyto “expire?”
Florinda says
Thanks for this information!
arlan says
I have seahorses so keeping the pod population is a must this seems to work well
Robert Gutsch says
This is awesome! Thank you
Johnny Ngo says
I need some pods for my new tank!
David Cruz says
Great info!
Mo ming says
Informative post
Mauricio says
New tank here. How often do you feed and how do you even start? Lol
Nicholas Riebe says
1234
Anthony Reyes says
Awesome!
Bubz says
Looks great!??
Ei says
Enjoyed your article very much
Ragnar says
From the ground up
Brandon Yost says
Awesome info didnt know any of this
erin wirfel says
interesting. what about porphyridium?
Brett says
Can never have enough!
Jammie Smith says
I love using phytoplankton in my reef
Kelly Eskridge says
Thanks
James Duncan says
I can’t wait to build the pod population in my 150. They’re an important part of the tanks ecosystem.
Kamden Sveum says
crazy
Pricilla says
My corals are so happy. Thanks you!
mterry9239 says
I use 2oz AlgaeBarn Phyto every other day. I have seen more growth and better overall coloration since I have started. I also replenish with EcoPods once a month. Thanks AlgaeBarn and will continue to do service with you.
Bryan Heffernan says
?
Ellery says
I use Nanochloropsis for now. Maybe I need to culture other strains too.
Chealse Benson says
Thanks!
arnel4games says
Nice info
Matthew Hulvey says
I agree
Daniel Lenger says
Anybody have a pod recommendation for feeding seahorses?
Rick Garant says
Cant wait to purchase
Christina Mills says
So glad I found your site, I have learned so much!!
Graham Alderson says
Thank you!
Frank Politi says
Great info thanks !
Carol Mauch says
So good for feeding the nearly invisible creatures!
John Collins says
Thanks good info
Joshua Nelson says
Amazing information kept it up!!!
Will Wood says
Good article
Jerry B says
It’s been about 20 years since I last had a reef tank. “Bio balls” and “trickle filter” were the words being tossed around back then. Looks like I have much to learn… I feed frozen food and some pellets but this is a whole new level for me! Looks like I have a lot of reading to do.
Micheal Prater says
Thank you for providing such good information.
Brendan Morris says
Nice breakdown!
Jacy Magers says
Thank you for the info, getting my ultimate refugium starter this week.
TheNYfishGuy says
Great Info ! Thanks Guys
Logan says
Great info thanks!
Tyler Smith says
Now I just need a sump to keep the copepods so they can breed before they all get eaten!
Cassi Hannon says
Love all the info you offer. Thanks!
sarabeth3412 says
Good read
Keith Upton says
Do you add the Phyto before or after adding the pods? Or add them at the same time?
Damion Kaholo says
Cant wait for the cheato to be back in stock!
Jennifer Whitaker says
I noticed a huge difference in coral growth when I started dosing with Phyto! I definitely need to order more!
Frank Politi says
So hard to see and takes many weeks for them to reproduce. However, the payoff will be great!!
Frank Politi says
Awesome article. Learn so much from you guys!!
Frank politi says
THan kyou guys
Ethon says
Yall should make a kit of rotifers and phyto specifically for breeding clownfish
Josh Blanford says
Awesome product
avasquez01 says
The only place I trust!
Christopher Patterson says
Very informative.. Thanks
kanenjoy69 says
Good article.
Salvador says
Nothing but the best.
THOMAS E TODD says
Got to get some Tisbee pods
Lisa Coe says
Very interesting info. Thanks
Elizabeth Merlino says
My Copepods and corals love phytoplanktonQ
Marc Ramey says
Thanks for the info!
Rob says
Cool
tony says
I just added pods two weeks ago and Phytoplancton 4OZ daily. My tank looks cleaner and the corals look happier.
Tony says
Got some great tips here
Jeff says
Hoping to add pods to support a mandarin down the road.
harry-7258 says
received another shipment of pods. The fish are happy!
Jacob Gricar says
Do you keep a separate tank with a secondary colony of pods and feed it phyto? My mandarin is a crazy eater.
Jacob Gricar says
This will be a big help. Looking to add a female mandarin to my reef.
John King says
Is it better to feed the phytoplankton in the morning or evening?
Chez Sealy says
Great!
Steve Griffin says
Happy to be a part of this blog. Let the learning begin!!
John J E Bogart says
Thx pods are in good health !
ralphfox6 says
Very great products
mkbmorissette says
On my 6 bottler feeding daily and loving it thx
james starret says
Cant wait to try
Brandon says
Nice I like it
Ryan Choy says
I can’t wait to use the pods I ordered
Ryan Choy says
I can’t wait to use the pods I ordered
michael says
would love to try when weather gets better
cctran says
Interesting article. I appreciate the in depth analysis of the microorganisms in the bottle. Really shows that the research has been done to ensure that we are not getting a bottle of snake oil. My first order is being shipped out on Monday and will definitely document progression as a casual reef hobbyist with a low tech build.
Daniel Oh says
Thank you for the informational in insightful description and facts.
Steve LaPenta says
????????
Gerrit Bus says
Started using your pods. So far so good.
Werner Wellmann says
Can I cultivate from this strain?
Elva Duran says
Still using phytoplankton that a family member bought for me this past Christmas
Kirk says
Just started my tank in December, this would be great to jump start establishing pods.
Katelynn Lee says
I’ve been looking for a good place to get phyto! This looks great
Tye Javorek says
Great tips
Tye Javorek says
Great tips
Tye Javorek says
This was a great read
Christopher Kerr says
Good info to know! I’ve never fed any phyto before. I’ll definitely look into starting now!
JanCarlo Bustamante says
So interesting how small these guys are and the impact they have
Jay Emeses says
Kudos.. this helps out.
christie says
+1
Arthur Mulanax says
Nice
Krista Frost says
Interesting article. I’m just starting up my first saltwater tank and want to go as natural as possible.
Rebecca Schleeper says
Looks interesting
Christopher Andrew Catherman says
That’s some really great info!
vancejj88 says
?
Bob Escher says
Great tips
Bob Escher says
Great tips
dave fischbach says
Valuable info. Thanks!
Jolene says
I am interested in raising my yellow watchmen goby fry, I am wondering if you will supply Parvo pods or s- rotifers?
Alonzo Huse says
This helped cycle a new take for me in the ugly stages.
GIO says
30mls a day. Everything looks amazing.
Brent Wiegand says
Great info!
Brent Wiegand says
Great info!
chrismacdonald272 says
Great info
Matt Filippi says
I really need a microscope
Roxane Quiquerez says
very interesting to read!
Tina says
Interesting read. Nice to know
Justin says
So helpful!!!
Justin Mace says
Very helpful information!
Justin Mace says
Always great tips and information!
Justin Mace says
Love all of the blogs! Always learn something new!
kmwagner91 says
Love the phytoplankton
Keaton Smith says
Great info!
Lorri Blanton says
Great help
Ethan says
Very interesting
l.premodaling says
??
Matthew Patrick says
I need some ISO & Thal.
Matthew Antolovich says
Nanno and Nano are used interchangeably in the article, but aren’t they two separate types of phyto?
Lilian Simmons says
I LOVE that your macro algae are clean!!!!
I love your products!
David Anderson says
Nifty
Jennifer Kennedy says
Live phyto is soooo much better for your aquarium than the stuff you can buy on the shelf at the LFS. So worth it!! Thanks, Algaebarn!
matthewcantu88 says
Seem to really benefit my tank. It’s so crazy the different variations and the biodiversity
Justin Zollar says
This stuff is awesome.
Amanda Rasberry says
Interesting read
Andrew Segmiller says
??
Natalie Fernandez says
Great information
Arthur says
Thanks for the information!
Robert Palmer says
Most Definitely Great Information Seeing I Am Stocking my tank monthly with live phyto and pods…I try different pods every other month
You Can Never Have Enough Thanks to the intense / Advanced Filtration systems of Today!
Thanks @ALGAEBARN.COM
Robert…
joshuameadows989 says
Will be doing a unboxing of baby brine shrimp reel soon for algae barn
Ry says
Hi
Elliot Choi says
nice
Wil says
Great products
becks17 says
This is great info and has really turned me onto always keeping live phyto available in my feeding rotation.
Carrie Harvey says
I need to try this
Mitchell Turner says
Cool
fanny ferguson says
nice
fanny ferguson says
very nice
Nikki says
Thank you for the information
Heather O'Sullivan says
Great information. Recently started to build a pod population to feed a seahorse tank I am looking to setup. Have noticed my algae issue quickly diminished but didn’t make the connection to adding the pods and dosing phyto.
dsims369 says
Great info, I love learning more about how to better my little piece of the ocean
John Bolden says
cool
Amber Fiscus says
Would it be ok to add pods to a newer tank?
David Ekers says
I need to experiment with phyto in the softy tank I’m starting. May have a mandarin (captive bred like ALL of my fish) and this would help the pod population.
Not going to dose to my reef; way too much filtration going on for this to be available for food.
matthew.k.wyatt says
A+
lunacos.inc says
Interesting
Chandler Stephens says
Interesting!
Presten Patrick says
Great info! Thanks
Kevin Johnson says
Sounds Like I should dose more than I do now.
bhubbard712 says
Always wanting to learn more
Chris says
Good to know..
NeteR says
Thanks so much for the info!
Rishov bhattacharya says
Super informative ,taking aquarium science to a whole new level.
Carlos Matias-Tejada says
may have to dose more… need to stock up for my future mandarin!
MOHAMED says
excellent product
Brandon Bauman says
Learned a lot reading this! Thank you!
Shawn Swaney says
Love this product!
Tylor Kress says
Am i the only one that never know there was so many
totlau says
Good information!
Zachary Allen says
Love the products
Jason Beach says
Agree, totally!
Sarah Dale says
Great info, thanks
Brandy Finley Parsons says
Copepods are awesome! They work miracles!
branngarybeary says
Copepods are awesome! They work miracles!
Jeff Schultz says
Love algaebarn and all their products. Get them pods!
Jeff Schultz says
Love algaebarn and all their products. Get them pods!
Jeff says
Can’t wait to try it!!!
Bob says
Hi
Michael says
If I have no predators, will I need to replace initial seeding?
Christopher Loop says
You guys rock
jhoffman says
Great info!
Jamie Robertson says
Thank you guys for the info!!
Matt says
Thanks for the info
Cody Baker says
Love all the info you share, you have some great tips and your copepods are hands down the best!
Rob says
Great info love pods and ocean magik!
amacpherson_mp says
The building block of reef life, amazing.
nathaniel ari caspi says
love you guys
dsdoyle says
AB is great! They have been very helpful and I keep coming back to them.
THANK YOU!
c0de7477 says
?
Lilly Moore says
I like how there are different types
Lilly Moore says
I love that there are different species of phytoplankton
Lilly Moore says
I love that there are different species of phytoplankton
stephen332 says
Nice informative article. Its reminding me to order some more phyto!!!
Sam says
I can’t wait to get my first pods ordered!
Loki says
Fascinating.
Jeremiah says
Hownlkk ok g does the phytoplankton live in a fridge?
gerrynator4 says
I haven’t tried phytoplankton just yet, but I’m excited to try them along with some new pods!
Richard Allen says
Woo!
Loreimy Barbosa says
Interesting read ??
Bradley Arrington says
Yes
Bradley Arrington says
+1
Grant K Baldwin says
This is brilliant stuff!!
Michael Potoeski says
More great info!
AMANDa says
+1
paul.lambert says
Would be cool if you could post more microscopic images of things we see in our aquaria!
Jason V says
Yes
Kim says
I just entered my first order. I am looking forward to the day when I can confidently add a Mandarin Dragonet. Algae Barn’s great deal on pods is making it happen.
Kim says
I just entered my first order. I am looking forward to the day when I can confidently add a Mandarin Dragonet. Algae Barn’s great deal on pods is making it happen.
Steve Ozark says
I feed phyto to copepods in the display and sump 3x a week. I add rotifers to the display daily and my corals and tank cleanliness really show the results!
david gutierrez says
love algae barn am learning so much as i go and alit feom them thank you!
joseph A. miranda says
+1
PHIRANY SUN says
Now this was informative. So much more to the saltwater world to learn. Thank you all who commented and gave advice to us newbies!
Namon Mcwilliams says
Just ordered some phytoplankton, unfortunately it’s back ordered but can’t wait to see the impact on my reef.
Jonathan Morera says
this is super helpful info!
Lilly says
Thanks that’s awesome
Lilly says
Thanks that’s awesome
zergling67 says
How much should I be dosing if the oceanmagik?
zergling67 says
How much should I be dosing if the oceanmagik?
zergling67 says
I have been dosing this for 2 months now
Tyler cattrell says
+1
Rich Allen says
Super interesting article.
Alicia white says
I realize that different phytoplankton have different smells, I bought one from an exotic fish store and it smelled like eggs and the ocean OMG, but when I ordered the Ocean Magic from algaebarn it actually has no smell in my opinion, so I’m really happy about the no smell thing lol
dchoma says
I heard Tisbe pods actually eat dinos – looking forward to trying this!
jnuestro says
Thanks for the info!
Andy Stipe says
good info
Chris says
Does phyto raise silicates?
Chris says
Do you sell single species of phyto?
Chris says
My comment didn’t post
ccallahan79 says
great info keep it coming!
Deborah Meader says
Interesting! Thanks for the info.
chris gargano says
Awesome. Very insightful article. Great source of information.
William Deng says
Great and informative – thanks for the knowledge!
Larry D Rutherford says
Good Read
matthewheath74 says
thank you
Natalie Muncy says
Do we need to add the phytoplankton after the two week dosage is given?
rocco morra says
Just getting ready to setup a Recife 40 gallon cube reef aquarium, no room for a refugium in the AIO setup as it is now. Can I add pods and photo to tank directly? If so, how much would be needed for tis size?
William Ryai says
+1
William Ryai says
+2
Bill Ryai says
+3
Bill Ryai says
got mine. bought too much though for nano tank
Davi Lopes says
I love algaebarn!
themattvp says
+1 !
Mary Reid says
Great tips. Thanks
bchen000 says
?
bchen000 says
?
Chris says
+1
Christopher says
Thank you
Michael Star Bailey says
So much information, thank you
Elizabeth says
I’m a nurse so the info about Iso is fascinating and will definitely be a part of my pico reef
nlippert77 says
Great info
Travis Knyfd says
incredible
Jennifer Zomick says
Great article! Thanks for the info
Jennifer Zomick says
Thank you for the information!
Jennifer m Zomick says
Your site is so informative.
greg.chernoff says
Thank you, we try and keep as broad a library about this hobby as we possibly can!
patricia kloeppel says
Great info,blog and answers +1
Wendy Hilton says
Interesting and informative
Kyle says
Love algae barn
Kyle says
Love algae barn
sherribates28 says
You guys rock
sherribates28 says
You guys rock
JAMES HAMILTON says
I have not personally noticed a difference when feeding the phyto but maybe Im doing it wrong.
Brittany says
Super helpful information as a new reefer! Thank you!
Erin Rogers says
+1 entry for me!
Johnson John says
Very helpful post
Tiffany Mitchell says
That’s great information. Thanks for the tip
Jordan says
About how many pods can a mandarinfish eat in a day?
Debbie says
Love all of your articles!!!! Scientific but easy to understand-great job
Matt Jennings says
Great Info!
Aaron says
I really like the tig pods
Kokass Angeles says
Has AB thought about working with Neptune/BRS or someone similar to develop a phyto dosing system? Something that occasionally stirs and keeps product chilled for dosing? There is definitely a need, though how niche I’m not sure. I’m thinking of building one – but… it would be easier if integrated with my other systems.
Jessica Turner says
Thank you for the info.
bezag says
Gotta feed my Ecopods!!
Frank Allen says
Ecopods WTF!
Maria Lynn Slabonik says
Great information on pods, thanks!
James says
neat
Tiffany Hook says
Thanks for the great info my still pretty new to saltwater tanks.
hayhayharper56 says
Great information!
solatedo4 says
Very helpful and informative
solatedo4 says
Very helpful and informative
michaeln768 says
Very informative article, a ton of help
Jason Nalley says
Phytoplankton is the best
Chris Shook says
+1
Chris Shook says
+1
Chris Shook says
Great product I use it all the time
Chris Shook says
Ocean magik Phytoplankton is an awesome product
Shrimppyshrimp says
Phytoplankton and pods ??
Shrimppyshrimp says
Phytoplankton and pods ??
George S says
mostly for pod but i thing many other things benefit
radavis12 says
I just ordered my first stuff, and so far I love it. My tank has a lot of filter feeders, so I will probably need to order more as time goes on.
radavis12 says
I just ordered my first stuff, and so far I love it. My tank has a lot of filter feeders, so I will probably need to order more as time goes on.
blackadonai says
Great article
Maggie H says
Sounds like solid information, it was a good read and very informative!
Eric Mamola says
Really good information to know thanks.