Live Phytoplankton - Nannochloropsis

Nannochloropsis is a genus of small, hardy marine microalgae widely used in aquaculture and reef aquariums. Known for its deep green color and high nutrient density, it is one of the most commonly cultured phytoplankton species in the hobby.

Why Nannochloropsis Is Popular

1. High in EPA (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)
Nannochloropsis is particularly rich in EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), an essential omega-3 fatty acid that supports:

• Fish growth and immune health

• Larval development

• Copepod reproduction

• Overall marine organism vitality

While it contains little to no DHA (unlike Tisochrysis), its EPA content makes it extremely valuable in feed enrichment programs.

2. Excellent for Live Feed Cultures

It is commonly used to feed and enrich:

• Copepods

• Rotifers

• Brine shrimp

• Bivalve larvae

Because copepods can retain fatty acids from their diet, feeding them Nannochloropsis improves their nutritional quality before they are consumed by fish or corals.

3. Hardy and Easy to Culture

Compared to many other phytoplankton species, Nannochloropsis is:

• More tolerant of variable conditions

• Fast-growing

• Relatively simple to culture at home

This makes it a favorite for hobbyists starting their own live phyto cultures.

Use in Reef Aquariums

• Supports pod population growth

• Feeds filter feeders and microfauna

• Helps establish a natural planktonic food web

• Can contribute to nutrient export when managed properly

Because its cell wall is relatively tough, it is better suited as a feed for zooplankton (which then pass nutrients up the food chain) rather than as a primary direct coral food in many systems.

Dosing & Storage Tips

• Keep refrigerated and shake well before use.

• Start with small doses to avoid nutrient buildup.

• Temporarily pause protein skimming or mechanical filtration during dosing for better uptake.

Nannochloropsis is a foundational phytoplankton species in both commercial aquaculture and reef aquariums. While it may not be as lipid-diverse as some golden algae species, its reliability, EPA content, and culture stability make it a core component of many live feeding programs.