Which phytoplankton for corals

[jacksok]

Currently growing my own phytoplankon (Nannochloropsis) and am considering starting up a second batch of a different strain - the question is which? Was considering Tetraselmis. The primary aim here is for feeding soft corals directly, rather than to support a zooplankton population.

Interested to hear what other species of phytoplankton people are growing and how you are finding them - both to culture and their take up by corals.

:thanks:

Keith

[MrFish]

Havn't got a clue, just know that its green, might try and find out though, it came from an online site that specializes in phyto (supplied on a culture ) disk, but I can't remember their name (not phyto aqua)

Edit - It was Cellpharm Nanochloropsis

[hairyduck]

Cellpharm do most types, Isochrysis is in the same sort of size range as Nanno and is probably a better general food than Tetraselmus. Chlorella would be a good one too if you could get hold of any.

Sizes:

Isochrysis 4-8μ
Nannochloropsis 4-6μ
Tetraselmis 12-14μ
Chlorella vulgaris 2-10μ
Thalassiosira 12-17μ

In terms of nutritional value then Nanno is by far the most nutritius, pavlova viridis being the next best, Isochysis has a lower level of protein but good fat and carb levels.

It all depends what your after really, it's worth getting hold of the plankton culture manual, it's packed full of info.

Kev

[jacksok]

Thanks Kev thats helpful

I wasn't thinking about nutrional levels so much as wondering to what extent phytoplankton size matters for coral capture at all. If its not really an issue and any phytoplankton will do the Isochrysis might well be a better bet.

Didn't realise CellPharm had ressurected themselves after going bust a few years back. Have now checked their site but can only find nano? Do you know a source for Isochrysis?

Keith

[hairyduck]

Varicon Aqua do it:

http://www.variconaqua.com/cultures.htm

Cellpharm do it too for a price, if you look under their cultures section (I think!)

[hairyduck]

I've squashed a few polyps under the microscope and there seems to be very little in the way of nano in there which was being added to the tank, most of my sps seem to be feeding on diatoms instead so I think the nano just acts as a food source for the diatoms, I may however be totally wrong!