AlgaGen PODS Apocyclops (8oz)

AlgaGen Apocyclops Copepods (8oz)

In the aquarium trade there are 3 types of copePODS that tend to get bottled and sold; Harpacticoid (benthic), Calanoid (pelagic) and Cyclopoid (that can exhibit both benthic and/or pelagic characteristics). CopePODS in general are small, not be confused with amphipods which are bigger, comma shaped PODS.

We do not call CopePODS microscopic because they can be seen with the naked eye, but the nauplii (babies) are. CopePODS play a very important role in the aquatic ecosystem. The bottom line is that they are critical in the cycling of carbon.

CopePODS eat detritus, phytoplankton, dead, decaying matter, each other, and turn these items into important fatty acids. Calanoids tend to eat phytoplankton; harpacticoids tend to eat detritus; Cyclopoids are similar to both, and depending on the species some eat fecal pellets of other copePODS. Regardless, these fatty acids produced by the copePODS enter the food-chain when the copePODS are eaten. This is an oversimplification. The marine food chain relies on the copePOD as an important source for EFA (Essential Fatty Acids ). CopePODS are a key source of nutrition in the aquatic food chain.

Adding copePODS repeatedly to a stocked reef tank is very important. Many tanks are overstocked and no matter how big a refugium is, or how much live rock there is, or how many hiding places there are, it is questionable as to how well copePODS survive because they are being grazed ferociously by corals, fish, other PODS, you name it.

AlgaGenPODS(TM) is the copePOD line we have established to get, live fresh, appropriate copePODS to market. Every bottle is packed to order; we cannot inventory this product and still expect you to get fresh cultures. There is a lot of work that goes into each bottle because we pack each bottle specifically for each individual order. This effort is critical, so that we can get the freshest cultures, to you!

Cyclopoids - AlgaGenPods Apocylops

Apocyclops panamensis is a tropical cyclopoid copepod with nutritious lipid reserves ideal for feeding corals and rearing marine fish larvae. it is prolific and will produce millions of nauplii each day under ideal conditions. A great benefit of Apocyclops is that it can be cultured using algae paste.

Apocylops panamensis We got this from Jim W. who has had great success working with it in his breeding endeavors - thank you Jim! He has raised this on paste. We do see very hi-production densities. Small nauplii and adult are visible with the eye but still....

NOTE: While not necessary, we strongly recommend that if you live outside of BC that you have this product shipped via UPS Expedited service at a minimum. This will minimize the chance of die-off during shipping. Live arrival will not be guaranteed if shipped standard/flat rate outside of BC.