A Versatile Diatom for Shrimp and Copepod Cultures

Thalassiosira weissflogii is a large diatom phytoplankton renowned for its adaptability and nutritional value. This strain thrives in a wide range of salinities, from brackish to saltwater, and is cultivated at a specific gravity of 1.022 in our labs. Widely recognized as one of the best algae for rearing shrimp commercially, Thalassiosira weissflogii is also a favorite for copepod cultures, as its cells are quickly consumed within 24 hours of feeding.

This strain reproduces both asexually and sexually, with sexual reproduction typically triggered by environmental stress. Its color may shift to green when silicates are low, but oversaturating the culture with silicate water can restore its natural yellowish hue within 2-3 weeks. Occasional lime green tints may appear, indicating a temporary silicate deficiency.

Key Features and Benefits

• Nutrient-Rich: High in HUFAs, EPA, and DHA fatty acids, essential for shrimp and copepod nutrition.
• Wide Salinity Tolerance: Thrives in brackish to saltwater environments, making it versatile for various setups.
• Rapid Consumption: Highly favored by copepods, with cells disappearing within 24 hours of feeding.
• Sustainable Reproduction: Capable of both asexual and sexual reproduction for long-term culturing.
• Color Restoration: Culture color shifts to green when silicates are low but returns to yellowish with proper silicate supplementation.

Culturing Recommendations

• Fertilizer: Use Florida Aqua Farms modified F/2 fertilizer with water glass or silicate water.
• Dosing: Add 5ml of FAF F/2 and 2ml of silicate water per gallon of culture volume.
• Salinity: Maintain a specific gravity of 1.022 for optimal growth.
• Silicate Management: Monitor silicate levels to avoid color changes and maintain culture health.

Why Choose Thalassiosira Weissflogii?

Thalassiosira weissflogii is a must-have diatom phytoplankton for aquarists and aquaculture professionals. Its exceptional nutritional profile, adaptability to varying salinities, and ability to support shrimp and copepod cultures make it an invaluable addition to your phytoplankton arsenal. Whether you’re rearing shrimp or enriching live feed, this strain provides unmatched results.