This guide is written as an operating framework. Exact limits still depend on the organism, system volume, equipment and local rules.
Treat each culture as separate
Shared pipettes, airline and containers can transfer predators or unwanted algae. Label and separate equipment.
Maintain stable salinity
Evaporation can shift small culture vessels quickly. Top up with fresh water and measure before harvesting.
Feed by density, not habit
A pale phytoplankton culture, clear rotifer vessel or falling pod numbers are production signals. Record colour, density and harvest.
Do not harvest the last culture
Keep a clean backup that is not routinely fed to the aquarium.
Restart before collapse
Slow recovery, odour, clumping or contamination are reasons to restart from a clean inoculum rather than force a failing culture.
Research and review
This is original AquaNexus writing. It does not reproduce third-party articles, tables, photographs or databases. Species-specific legal and husbandry claims must be checked against current authoritative sources before publication as final guidance.