Copepod Dosing – Seeding & Maintenance Guide

This guide explains how to seed, maintain, and support healthy copepod populations in reef aquariums. For best results, pair your dosing routine with live phytoplankton and regular biodiversity support.

Seeding New Tanks

For new reef tanks or systems lacking biodiversity, a strong initial dose helps establish a stable microfauna base.

• Recommended: 250–500 mL per 100 L weekly for 2–4 weeks.
• Dose after lights out to reduce predation.
• Pour into low‑flow areas, refugiums, or rockwork.

Maintenance Dosing

Once populations are established, regular top‑ups maintain biodiversity and feeding availability.

• Recommended: 250–350 mL per 100 L monthly.
• Increase frequency in predator‑heavy tanks.
• Pair with phytoplankton for long‑term stability.

Feeding Copepods (Phytoplankton)

Copepods require phytoplankton to reproduce and maintain healthy populations. Feeding phyto ensures nauplii reach adulthood.

• Nannochloropsis: Nutrient uptake + small cell size.
• Hulk Juice: 3‑strain blend for broad support.
• Gold Rush: Ideal for pod‑heavy systems.
• Reef’s Choice: Maximum biodiversity.

Best Copepod Species for Your Tank

• Tisbe: Benthic, hides in rockwork, ideal for mandarins.
• Tigriopus: Larger, jerky swimmers, great for feeding response.
• Oithona: Small pelagic species, excellent for corals.

Tips for Best Results

• Turn off skimmer, UV, and filter socks for 30–60 minutes.
• Dose after lights out.
• Feed phytoplankton 2–4 times per week.
• Use refugiums for long‑term pod stability.