How to Raise Brine Shrimp Eggs

Brine shrimp are small crustaceans that have lived in lakes for millions of years. These tiny creatures feed off bacteria and serve as an important food source for larger animals. These creatures are also fairly easy to raise once a tank has been properly prepared to foster ideal conditions. With a pH meter and thermometer in hand, anyone with a 10-gallon fish tank can purchase brine shrimp eggs from a pet store and raise them in the perfect conditions for hatching.

Things You'll Need

  • Brine shrimp eggs
  • 10-gallon tank
  • Acrylic plate
  • Filtration system
  • 2000 lux light
  • 60- to 100-watt light bulb
  • Water thermometer
  • pH meter
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Instructions

  1. Preparing the Tank

    • 1

      Purchase a tank that is at least 10 gallons.

    • 2

      Purchase a sheet of acrylic with dimensions slightly larger than the tank.

    • 3

      Push the acrylic to the bottom of the tank. Since the dimensions of the acrylic are bigger than the tank, you will be left with a concave bottom. The concave bottom will help the circulation of water in the tank and help prevent brine shrimp eggs from collecting in the corners.

    • 4

      Purchase a high-quality filtration system that produces large air bubbles. Small air bubbles can lift the brine shrimp to the surface of the water and kill them, or trap the shrimp. A high-quality filtration system will also produce a strong circulation of water in the tank.

    The Right Tank Environment

    • 5

      Keep the tank at a temperature between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Some varieties of brine shrimp require specific temperatures, so be sure to ask the pet shop or store where you purchase the brine shrimp what temperature is recommended.

    • 6

      Use a 2000 lux light to hatch the eggs. Once they are hatched, switch to a light bulb between 60 and 100 watts. Brine shrimp are attracted to light and you want to prevent the shrimp expending too much energy trying to remain close to a light source.

    • 7

      Maintain a pH level of 8 in the tank.

    • 8

      Change 20 percent of the water in the tank each week to maintain adequate water quality.