Isochrysis galbana Live Phytoplankton

Product Overview

Isochrysis galbana is a classic golden-brown marine microalgae widely used in reef aquariums and marine aquaculture for its balanced nutritional profile and ease of culture. This versatile phytoplankton provides excellent lipid and protein content, making it valuable for copepod maintenance, rotifer production, and filter-feeder nutrition. Our cultures are concentrated, viable, and ready to dose directly into your system.

Key Benefits for Reef Aquaria

• Balanced Nutrition: Well-rounded protein and lipid profile for general copepod maintenance
• Versatile Size: 4-6 microns suitable for copepod nauplii, adults, and filter feeders
• Robust and Reliable: Hardy species tolerates parameter fluctuations better than delicate algae
• Cost-Effective: Excellent nutritional value at an economical price point
• Filter Feeder Support: Ideal for clams, feather dusters, and soft corals
• Proven Track Record: Decades of use in commercial aquaculture worldwide

Species Highlights

Isochrysis galbana is one of the most historically important phytoplankton species in marine aquaculture, with a proven track record spanning decades. This small, flagellated microalgae exhibits golden-brown coloration from fucoxanthin and other carotenoid pigments. Isochrysis thrives in temperatures from 68-78°F and moderate light levels, making it adaptable to various culture conditions. While the T-ISO strain (Tisochrysis lutea) has higher DHA content, standard Isochrysis galbana remains valuable for its balanced nutrition, hardiness, and reliability. This species is particularly suited for hobbyists seeking a versatile, economical phytoplankton for general reef tank maintenance.

Nutritional Profile

• Balanced Protein Content: 35-45% crude protein by dry weight
• Moderate Lipid Levels: 12-20% total lipids with good fatty acid balance
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Solid EPA and moderate DHA content for copepod health
• Complete Vitamin Profile: B-vitamins, vitamin E, and essential micronutrients
• Fucoxanthin Pigments: Carotenoids with antioxidant and color-enhancing properties
• Essential Sterols: Important lipid compounds for copepod reproduction

How to Add to Your Tank

Dosing: Shake bottle gently before use to redistribute cells. Add directly to refugium, sump, or display tank during low-flow periods.

Refugium Addition: Dose near copepod populations for direct feeding. Daily dosing supports steady copepod populations and general maintenance.

Display Tank: Broadcast dose in evening hours. Water may show slight golden tint that clears within hours as organisms consume cells.

Recommended Dosage: Start with 5-10ml per 25 gallons daily for maintenance. Increase to 15-25ml per 25 gallons for systems with moderate copepod cultures or filter feeders.

Breeding Systems: Dose 2-3 times daily for rotifer and copepod production systems requiring reliable, economical nutrition.

Storage and Care

Upon Arrival: Refrigerate immediately at 35-45°F. Shake gently before opening to redistribute cells.

Refrigerated Storage: Keeps for 2-4 weeks when properly refrigerated. Check for fresh ocean smell and golden-brown coloration.

Viability Check: Healthy cultures appear golden-brown in color. Off smell, green or gray coloration indicates declining viability.

Shake Before Use: Cells settle naturally—always shake gently to redistribute before dosing.

Avoid Freezing: Never freeze phytoplankton cultures as this destroys cell structure and nutritional value.

Live Arrival Guarantee

All PodDrop phytoplankton cultures are guaranteed to arrive alive and viable. Our Isochrysis galbana is shipped fresh and concentrated for immediate use. If your culture arrives compromised (off smell, unusual color, or dead cells), contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos for replacement or refund. We use insulated shipping to maintain culture viability during transit.

Shipping & Return Policy

Shipping: Monday-Wednesday via UPS 2nd Day Air for fast, reliable delivery. Arizona aquaculture license #91 ensures legal, biosecure cultures. Includes insulation and cold packs for temperature protection.

Weather Delays: We monitor conditions and may hold orders during extreme temperatures to ensure culture viability.

Returns: Live phytoplankton cannot be returned once shipped due to perishable nature. Contact us before shipping for order modifications.

Tracking: Confirmation email sent when your order ships with UPS tracking number.

Live Organism Handling Compliance

PodDrop operates as a licensed Arizona aquaculture facility (AQ License #91) following strict biosecurity and handling protocols. Our Isochrysis galbana cultures are:

• Raised in isolated, contamination-controlled systems
• Free from harmful bacteria, parasites, and competing algae species
• Packaged in food-grade, sealed containers for biosecurity
• Shipped in compliance with USDA and state aquaculture regulations
• Standard strain maintained for consistent quality and nutrition
• Sustainably produced without environmental impact

Proper Handling: Refrigerate immediately upon arrival. Shake gently before each use. Never release culture water into natural waterways. Dispose of packaging responsibly.