Live Rotifers

Rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis) are very tiny animals measuring between 130-200 micrometers. Tiny as they are, rotifers are very important part of reefs because they bring the nutrition that phytoplankton harnesses from light, to carnivorous organisms. Although most filter feeders, such as corals and clams, consume phytoplankton, these organisms actually prefer free floating zooplanktons such as rotifers. This is especially true for newly hatched fish fry.

A live and moving food source elicits the fishes' feeding response. Rotifers are perfect for a reef's food source because they multiply very rapidly and they are just the right size for almost all filter feeders.

Our Rotifers are an excellent diet for most reef inhabitants. Promotes zooplankton production and is ideal for rearing fry (freshwater or saltwater). We are currently culturing the "L" strain of rotifers (brachionus plicatilis) , which range in size from 150-360 microns.

Our rotifers cultured in saltwater with a specific gravity of 1.019. Our rotifer cultures are usually maintained at a population density of 50 to 200 rotifers per ml of water.

Please note that rotifers are around 130-200 microns in size. Unlike brine shrimp, they can not be easily seen with the naked eyes. With the rotifers in a clear container and the water perfectly still, shine a torch to the side of the container. The rotifers should be visible as tiny specks swimming around when viewed from the surface of the water.

Once you have made your purchase we will email you with information on how to get the best from your rotifers so you will be ready for your purchase when it arrives.

Rotifers generally keep in the fridge for a few days so you can feed them as little or as often as you like during this time.