Tigriopus sirindhornae Live Copepods

Product Overview

Tigriopus sirindhornae are rare, exceptionally hardy harpacticoid copepods native to Thailand's coastal tide pools. These premium copepods are among the largest available to reef aquarists, providing superior live nutrition for demanding fish species. Exclusively cultured by PodDrop in the United States, our cultures ship with live phytoplankton to ensure they arrive actively feeding and ready to establish in your tank.

Key Benefits for Reef Aquaria

• Largest Copepod Species: Adults reach 2-3mm, ideal for larger dragonets, anthias, and wrasses
• Extreme Hardiness: Tolerates wider temperature and salinity ranges than other Tigriopus species
• Rare Genetic Diversity: Exclusive Thai lineage unavailable from other suppliers
• Superior Live Food: Large size and high nutritional density for finicky predators
• Robust Reproduction: Hardy nature means reliable population establishment
• Refugium Workhorse: Excellent detritus control and biofilm grazing

Species Highlights

Tigriopus sirindhornae represents the pinnacle of copepod aquaculture for reef aquariums. Originally described from Thailand, this species exhibits exceptional tolerance to environmental fluctuations (temperatures 65-85°F, salinity 25-40ppt). Their bright red-orange coloration makes population monitoring easy, and their large size means each individual provides more nutrition than smaller species. PodDrop is the exclusive U.S. supplier of this rare species, maintaining documented lineages from Thailand. These copepods are particularly valuable for aquarists seeking to establish robust, long-term populations that withstand parameter swings.

Nutritional Profile

• Maximum Protein Content: 55-65% crude protein by dry weight
• Premium Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Highest EPA and DHA levels among cultured copepods
• Complete Amino Acid Profile: All essential amino acids in optimal ratios
• Rich in Carotenoids: Superior pigmentation for fish color and immune health
• Live Enzymes and Probiotics: Enhanced digestibility and gut health benefits
• Large Biomass: Individual size provides more nutrition per copepod consumed

How to Add to Your Tank

Acclimation: Float the sealed container in your tank for 15-20 minutes to temperature acclimate. Slowly add small amounts of tank water over 10-15 minutes due to premium nature.

Introduction: Pour copepods into your refugium or sump after lights out for best survival. Can also be added to display tank low-flow areas near rockwork.

Timing: Add to established tanks (3+ months old) with stable parameters. Exceptional hardiness means higher survival rates than other species.

Population Boost: For large mandarin dragonets or multiple planktivorous fish, start with 2-3 bottles per 75 gallons. Monthly maintenance doses sustain populations.

Storage and Care

Upon Arrival: Unpack immediately and inspect for active copepods. Large size makes them highly visible and easy to observe.

Short-Term Storage (up to 48 hours): Keep at room temperature (68-75°F) away from direct sunlight. Exceptional hardiness allows flexible timing.

Adding to Tank: Best added same day as arrival for maximum population establishment. Can be held up to 3 days if kept cool with gentle aeration.

Feeding: Our copepods ship with live phytoplankton food supply—no feeding needed before adding to your tank.

Live Arrival Guarantee

All PodDrop copepods are guaranteed to arrive alive and actively moving. Our cultures ship with live phytoplankton to maintain health during transit. If copepods arrive deceased or your order has issues, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos for replacement or refund. We ship using proven methods to ensure viable populations reach your reef aquarium.

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 temperature protection.

Weather Delays: We monitor conditions and may hold orders for extreme temperatures to ensure live arrival.

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

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

Live Animal Handling Compliance

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

• Raised in isolated, quarantine-controlled systems from documented Thai lineages
• Free from parasites, diseases, and pest organisms
• Packaged in food-grade, sealed containers for biosecurity
• Shipped in compliance with USDA and state aquaculture regulations
• Exclusively cultured in the U.S. by PodDrop—unavailable from other suppliers
• 100% aquacultured for sustainability and conservation

Proper Handling: Wash hands before and after handling. Never release copepods into natural waterways. Dispose of packaging responsibly.