Guide to Hatching Brine Shrimp

Complete Guide to Hatching Brine Shrimp

Essential Equipment

Basic Setup

  • High-quality brine shrimp eggs
  • Clear hatching container
  • Air pump with airline tubing
  • Thermometer
  • Non-iodized or synthetic sea salt
  • Dechlorinated water
  • Harvesting sieve (125 micron)
  • Light source

Optional Equipment

  • Aquarium heater
  • Digital salinity meter
  • Timer for light cycle

Step-by-Step Hatching Process

Water Preparation

  • Use dechlorinated or aged tap water
  • Add 1.5 tablespoons salt per liter
  • Target salinity: 1.018-1.024
  • Optimal temperature: 77-82°F (25-28°C)

Setup Instructions

  1. Fill container with prepared saltwater
  2. Install gentle aeration
    • Bubbles should keep eggs suspended
    • Avoid vigorous agitation
  3. Position light source
  4. Add measured quantity of eggs
    • Don't overcrowd
    • Follow package recommendations

Hatching Timeline

  • Duration: 24-48 hours
  • Signs of successful hatching:
    • Water turns orange-brown
    • Active swimming nauplii visible
    • Empty shells floating

Harvesting Your Brine Shrimp

Collection Process

  1. Stop aeration
  2. Wait 10-15 minutes for separation
    • Shells float to top
    • Unhatched eggs sink
    • Live nauplii concentrate near light
  3. Collect with fine mesh sieve
  4. Rinse gently with fresh water

Storage Tips

  • Use immediately for best nutritional value
  • Short-term storage:
    • Keep in cool, clean saltwater
    • Maintain gentle aeration
    • Use within 24 hours

Troubleshooting Guide

Common Issues

  • Poor hatch rate:
    • Check water parameters
    • Verify egg quality
    • Ensure proper temperature
    • Confirm adequate aeration
  • Contamination:
    • Clean equipment thoroughly
    • Use fresh water for each batch
    • Maintain proper salinity

Best Practices

  • Keep equipment clean
  • Store eggs in refrigerator
  • Use fresh eggs within expiration date
  • Maintain consistent temperature
  • Document successful hatches

Pro Tips:

  • Start new cultures every 24 hours for continuous supply
  • Monitor temperature carefully - too hot or cold affects hatch rates
  • Use quality eggs for better results (available from Reefphyto)
  • Clean equipment between hatches to prevent contamination