Phytoplankton

[GarrettT]

For those culturing multiple phytoplankton strains, do you do anything differently or do the same rules apply for each strain? Also, can the strains be cultured next to one another (in separate containers)? I’m thinking about culturing nanno, tetra, and iso.

 

[Rtaylor]

For those culturing multiple phytoplankton strains, do you do anything differently or do the same rules apply for each strain? Also, can the strains be cultured next to one another (in separate containers)? I’m thinking about culturing nanno, tetra, and iso.

The process isn’t different for different strains, but some are more sensitive and likely to crash. Yes, they can be next to each other, just be careful not to cross contaminate.

 

[Miami Reef]

Some strains will require silica (none of the ones mentioned in the OP do).

Some are more finicky (iso fits that bill).

 

[GarrettT]

Can multiple strains be used on the same gang valve/pump?

 

[TWYOUNG]

Can I start my cultures with any mix of phyto such as Ocean Magic or do I need a specific strain such as Nannochloropsis?

 

[Derrick0580]

Can I start my cultures with any mix of phyto such as Ocean Magic or do I need a specific strain such as Nannochloropsis?

You will need specific strains

 

[TWYOUNG]

You will need specific strains

Do you happen to have a preferred strain and/or source for your phyto?

 

[c_johns89]

Can multiple strains be used on the same gang valve/pump?

You can always splice some filters into the airline if you're concerned about contamination.

 

[GarrettT]

Do you happen to have a preferred strain and/or source for your phyto?

@Eldredge is a good source.

Nanno is the most common and important, but many like to add motile algaes such as Tetraselmis and Isochrysis.

You can always splice some filters into the airline if you're concerned about contamination.

Yes sir. I’ve been using sterile cotton balls for that.

 

[Derrick0580]

Do you happen to have a preferred strain and/or source for your phyto?

Nannochloropsis

 

[TWYOUNG]

Nannochloropsis

That seems to be the popular choice. Evidently it's easier than some others.

 

[Derrick0580]

That seems to be the popular choice. Evidently it's easier than some others.

Think it’s less prone to crash as the others can be. Just make sure you use 70% rubbing alcohol to sanitize everything!

 

[TWYOUNG]

Think it’s less prone to crash as the others can be. Just make sure you use 70% rubbing alcohol to sanitize everything!

So far I've used bleach with thorough rinsing but I've heard air drying after alcohol works. If that's true alcohol seems easier.

 

[Derrick0580]

Yes I use 70% isopropyl alcohol