Pseudodiaptomus pelagicus Live Copepods

Product Overview

Pseudodiaptomus pelagicus are large, robust calanoid copepods prized for their exceptional size and nutritional value in reef aquariums and marine breeding systems. These powerful swimmers provide premium live nutrition for larger planktivorous fish and are essential for professional breeding programs. Our cultures ship with live phytoplankton to ensure they arrive actively feeding and ready to enrich your tank ecosystem.

Key Benefits for Reef Aquaria

• Largest Planktonic Copepod: Adults reach 1.5-2.5mm, providing maximum nutrition per individual
• Professional Breeding Standard: Industry choice for larval fish culture and fry rearing
• Powerful Swimmers: Strong calanoid swimming motion triggers aggressive feeding responses
• Premium Nutrition Source: Ideal for anthias, wrasses, large dragonets, and demanding planktivores
• Seahorse Specialist Food: Preferred live prey for adult seahorses and pipefish
• High Biomass Density: Large size means fewer individuals needed per feeding

Species Highlights

Pseudodiaptomus pelagicus represents the pinnacle of calanoid copepod species for marine aquaculture, combining exceptional size with robust health and nutritional superiority. These copepods tolerate temperatures from 68-80°F and adapt to varying salinity levels, making them versatile for different system types. Their powerful, darting swimming motion and large size make them highly visible and attractive to fish. Pseudodiaptomus are particularly valued in commercial fish breeding operations where maximizing growth rates and survival is critical. Their size and swimming behavior make them less suitable for small refugium establishment but excellent for direct feeding and breeding systems.

Nutritional Profile

• Maximum Protein Density: 56-66% crude protein by dry weight
• Premium Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Highest EPA and DHA concentrations available in copepods
• Superior Lipid Content: Rich in essential long-chain PUFAs for reproduction and growth
• Complete Amino Acid Profile: Optimal ratios for larval fish development and adult health
• Natural Astaxanthin: Maximum carotenoid content for vibrant coloration
• High Energy Density: Large biomass provides maximum nutrition per feeding event

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 directly into your display tank or breeding system with moderate to high flow. Their strong swimming ability allows them to navigate current easily.

Timing: Add to established tanks (3+ months old) with stable parameters. Best added during active feeding periods to observe immediate fish response.

Population Boost: For breeding systems, seahorse tanks, or large planktivore populations, start with 2-3 bottles per 75-100 gallons. Regular weekly additions recommended for continuous live food availability.

Storage and Care

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

Short-Term Storage (up to 48 hours): Keep at room temperature (68-76°F) away from direct sunlight. Gentle aeration recommended for optimal health and activity.

Adding to Tank: Best added same day as arrival for maximum viability and feeding value. Can be held up to 3 days with cool temperatures and 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 Pseudodiaptomus pelagicus cultures are:

• Raised in isolated, quarantine-controlled systems
• Free from parasites, diseases, and pest organisms
• Packaged in food-grade, sealed containers for biosecurity
• Shipped in compliance with USDA and state aquaculture regulations
• 100% aquacultured for sustainability and biosecurity

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