Live Nannochloropsis Saltwater Culture
Phytoplankton, also known as microalgae, are similar to terrestrial plants in that they contain chlorophyll and require sunlight in order to live and grow. Most phytoplankton are buoyant and float in the upper part of the ocean, where sunlight penetrates the water. Phytoplankton are the foundation of the aquatic food web, the primary producers, feeding everything from microscopic zooplankton to whales.
Phytoplankton can also be the harbingers of death or disease. Certain species of phytoplankton produce powerful biotoxins, making them responsible for so-called “red tides,” or harmful algal blooms. These toxic blooms can kill marine life and people who eat contaminated seafood.
Even though phytoplankton make up less than 1% of the total biomass on Earth that can photosynthesize, they deliver about 45% of global primary production. Without phytoplankton, most oceanic food webs would collapse, which would be devastating for both marine life and humans who rely on fish for food.The tiny organisms provide more than just nutrients. Through photosynthesis, phytoplankton create oxygen that is released into the ocean and atmosphere. In fact, since they began photosynthesizing over 3 billion years ago – more than two billion years before land plants and trees – phytoplankton have made about 50% of all the oxygen that has been produced on Earth.
At Mercer of Montana, we adhere to the highest standards of sterile laboratory protocols, to ensure that each bottle of dense, vitamin rich Phytoplankton and PhytoPheed are contaminant-free. All cultures are subjected to daily maintenance of salinity and pH levels. Harvested cultures are verified via microscope for species, density, and viability prior to shipping.
Nannochloropsis is a beneficial micro algae found throughout the world’s oceans. This live phytoplankton has been cultured from isolated Nannochloropsis cells suspended in agar, using our own PhytoPheed f/2 hyrdoalgal fertilizer for greater density and longer viability. By culturing directly from a Petri Dish, you can be assured that you have only Nannochloropsis Oculata, and not a blend of various types of microalgae. The genus Nannochloropsis Oculata is widely accepted as the standard for reef keeping aquarists to promote the growth and vibrancy of many corals, invertebrates, and other filter feeder livestock. This live phytoplankton may also be used as an inoculant to propagate additional quantities, if desired.
Reviews
This is my third order from Mercer of Montana. The culture is very good and thick. Packaging is done very well. I will always get my cultures from Mercer of Montana.
Very pleased with their nannochloropsis phytoplankton. Just received my 3rd order and having ordered from countless other companies, I can honestly say the quality of Mercer’s phyto is exceptional. Customer service is exceptional as well… very professional and responsive if you have any questions.