Copepod refugium

[Mihai]

I have a nice 20 gal long refugium meant to feed a 90 gal display including a pair mandarins (S. splendidus). However, I recently realized that the mandarins feed on copepods while my refugium is making large quantities (almost incredible) of amphipods. Same with my pod piles in the display - they make amphipods.

I don't see many copepods either in the tank or in the fuge. The mandarins look good and plump, and yet, I would be much more comfortable if I wold know that I'm doing the best I can to provide the mandarins with copepods.

Sooo.... is there a way of setting up the refugium that would maximize the production of copepods?

Thanks,
M.

 

[Anonymous]

Amphipod larvae are just as good as copepods. Ostracodes are more nutritionall complete though.

 

[Mihai]

Amphipod larvae are just as good as copepods. Ostracodes are more nutritionall complete though.

Cool! Thanks, that should do then.
M.

 

[bradl.]

Light cycle?

 

[Mihai]

Light cycle?

Huh? The light cycle of the refugium is identical to the one of the display: since it is designed as a "display refugium", staying in the living room I cannot keep it on a reverse lightcycle. Once I'll get to finish my basement sump I'll be able to light that on a reverse cycle.

M.

 

[zonkers]

I've seen my mandarin will suck up the largest amphipods I've ever seen in the tank-- don't let those little fish lips fool you

 

[Mihai]

I've seen my mandarin will suck up the largest amphipods I've ever seen in the tank-- don't let those little fish lips fool you

On the contrary, I frequently shake pieces of chaeto and Ulva sp. to spare any pods, stars and snails before I throw it away. Despite the fact that several times the amphipods droped right by the mandarin he never took a bite at them. It may be well fed and not need big amphipods, or my amphipods are larger (or less tasty) than yours.

M.