Tisochrysis lutea Live Phytoplankton

Product Overview

Tisochrysis lutea (formerly Isochrysis galbana T-ISO) is a premium golden-brown marine microalgae widely recognized as one of the most nutritionally complete phytoplankton species for reef aquariums and marine aquaculture. This exceptionally rich microalgae provides superior lipid content and essential fatty acids, making it indispensable for copepod reproduction, rotifer enrichment, and coral nutrition. Our cultures are concentrated, viable, and ready to dose directly into your system.

Key Benefits for Reef Aquaria

• Highest Lipid Content: Superior fat content supports copepod egg production and reproduction
• DHA-Rich Nutrition: Exceptional docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels unmatched by other species
• Copepod Reproduction Booster: Maximizes fecundity in all copepod species
• Rotifer Enrichment Standard: Industry choice for enriching rotifers before feeding
• Small Cell Size: 4-6 microns ideal for smallest copepod nauplii and coral polyps
• Professional Aquaculture Standard: Used worldwide in commercial fish and invertebrate hatcheries

Species Highlights

Tisochrysis lutea represents the gold standard for lipid-rich phytoplankton in marine aquaculture. This small, flagellated microalgae is easily consumed by even the tiniest organisms while providing exceptional nutritional density. The golden-brown coloration comes from fucoxanthin and other valuable carotenoid pigments. Tisochrysis thrives in temperatures from 68-78°F and moderate light levels. This species is particularly valued for its extraordinarily high DHA content—the essential omega-3 fatty acid critical for neural development, reproduction, and larval survival in marine organisms. Professional breeders consider T-ISO essential for achieving maximum survival rates in larval fish culture.

Nutritional Profile

• Premium Lipid Content: 20-30% total lipids by dry weight—highest among common phytoplankton
• Exceptional DHA Levels: Superior docosahexaenoic acid concentration for reproduction
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Complete EPA and DHA profile for optimal health
• High Protein Content: 35-45% crude protein by dry weight
• Fucoxanthin Pigments: Valuable carotenoids with antioxidant and color-enhancing properties
• Essential Sterols: Critical lipid compounds for copepod and rotifer 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 dramatically improves copepod egg production and reproduction rates.

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 20-30ml per 25 gallons for maximum copepod reproduction or breeding systems.

Breeding Systems: Dose 3-4 times daily for intensive copepod and rotifer production requiring maximum lipid enrichment.

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 Tisochrysis lutea 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 Tisochrysis lutea 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
• Premium T-ISO 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.