Tisochrysis lutea

Tisochrysis lutea is a marine microalga widely used in aquaculture and reef systems for its exceptional nutritional profile. It was formerly grouped within Isochrysis species but is now classified separately due to genetic distinctions.

Why It’s So Highly Valued

Rich in DHA (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)
Tisochrysis lutea is especially high in DHA, a crucial highly unsaturated fatty acid (HUFA) that supports:

• Larval fish development

• Coral tissue health

• Improved survivorship in aquaculture species

• Enhanced coloration and vitality

Its lipid content is one of the main reasons it is considered a premium enrichment algae.

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Ideal for Live Feed Enrichment

This microalga is commonly used to enrich:

• Copepods

• Rotifers

• Brine shrimp

• Bivalve larvae

Because many live feeds pass their nutritional value up the food chain, enriching them with Tisochrysis lutea significantly boosts their fatty acid profile before feeding them to fish or corals.

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Use in Reef Aquariums

• Supports copepod reproduction

• Provides direct nutrition to filter feeders

• Suitable for clams, feather dusters, and many corals

• Helps build a more natural planktonic ecosystem

Its small cell size makes it readily consumable by a wide range of microfauna and suspension feeders.

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Practical Considerations

• Store refrigerated and shake before use.

• Dose conservatively to avoid nutrient spikes.

• Temporarily reduce mechanical filtration when dosing for better uptake.

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In both professional aquaculture and home reef systems, Tisochrysis lutea is regarded as one of the most effective phytoplankton species for enriching live foods and supporting overall marine nutrition.