Pyrocystis fusiformis 100mL - $10

[Eatfrenchfries]

Pyrocystis fusiformis-

A dinoflagellate that glows when disturbed at night. Cultured in labs to visualize flow. Not much use dosed in marine aquaria other than an occasional spark or two. A fun little science project for all ages. It has some merit in learning microalgae production methods. 

(photo: pyro cell taken during the day while the chloroplasts are extended to the edge of the cell membrane)

Care: approximate 12 day/night cycle, needs to be fed prediluted F/2 with synthetic seawater every 5-7 days. 

 

Location : Raleigh Hills

100mL for $10 

500mL of prediluted F/2 + seawater for $1

 

[obrien.david.j]

This looks like a fun Christmas project for families.   Are you sure I can't grow it out into a gallon or two, and then flood the display tank with it? 

[Eatfrenchfries]

You could. It would take a while to reach that volume. It'd be neat to do at night to see your flow. 

 

The dinoflagellates are from cooler waters so they won't last. The constant mechanical filtration will also ruin their bioluminescence. 

 

[obrien.david.j]

2 hours ago, Eatfrenchfries said:

You could. It would take a while to reach that volume. It'd be neat to do at night to see your flow. 

The dinoflagellates are from cooler waters so they won't last. The constant mechanical filtration will also ruin their bioluminescence. 

Won't last mean, they'll survive an hour, overnight, a week,   Not looking for scientifically accurate answer, but a gut guess works.

[Eatfrenchfries]

@obrien.david.j

Best guess would be a couple weeks.

 

My test system (72F) which does not have mechanical filtration occasionally throws sparks at night time. 

 

*can be agitated to display luminescence at a rate of 1 bubble per minute without stressing the cell.  Seems to last for some time in invert cultures but will be consumed if exposed. (Based on observation after dosing Opae ula)