Step-by-step
Step 1: Set up hatchery jarUse a hatchery cone or DIY 2-liter bottle (cap drilled with airline). Fill with saltwater (1 tbsp salt per liter) at 78-80°F. Aerate vigorously.
Step 2: Add eggs1/4-1/2 teaspoon brine shrimp eggs per liter of water. Eggs float at first; aeration keeps them suspended.
Step 3: Light + heat 24 hoursContinuous light (small LED). Maintain 78-80°F. Eggs hatch in 18-36 hours.
Step 4: Identify harvest timeAfter 24-36 hours, hatched larvae sink to the bottom and aggregate near the light. Empty shells float at the surface.
Step 5: Stop aeration + harvestTurn off airstone. Wait 5 minutes for separation. Siphon larvae from the bottom (avoiding shells at top). Strain through brine net.
Step 6: Rinse + feedRinse with clean tank water (removes salt residue). Feed immediately to fish or coral. Refrigerate excess up to 24 hours.
Step 7: Grow to adults (optional)For larger brine shrimp: transfer larvae to a 5-gallon grow-out tank with aged saltwater. Feed yeast or spirulina. Harvest at 14-21 days for 1-inch adults.
FAQ
How long do brine shrimp live?
Newly hatched (nauplii) live 24-48 hours unless fed. Adult brine shrimp live 3-6 months in a properly maintained culture.
What temperature for hatching brine shrimp?
78-80°F is optimal. Below 75°F slows hatching to 48+ hours; above 82°F can stress eggs.
Are brine shrimp nutritious?
Newly hatched: yes - high protein + lipid. Adult brine shrimp: less nutritious, but enrich with Selcon or microalgae for max nutrition.