Effects of Light on Sea Monkeys

Sea monkeys, or brine shrimp, are arguably the simplest type of "pet" a person can have. Still, the idea that they can do absolutely nothing beyond randomly swimming around is a small misconception, as they do react to certain stimuli. One example of this can be seen by exposing them to various kinds and amounts of light, something they show a very strong preference for.

  1. Why the Attraction?

    • Brine shrimp are naturally drawn to light, meaning exposure to it generally elicits a reaction from them. This is largely because light encourages green algae growth in their tanks. Green algae's presence provides both oxygen and food for the sea monkeys, thus making both the algae and the light that helps to grow it vital for the sea monkeys.

    How Do They React?

    • Exactly how brine shrimp react to light depends on how much light they are exposed to and under what circumstances they are exposed to it.

      Placing them into a dark room and then shining a focused beam of light into one part of their tank will draw them toward the light. Moving the light around the tank will cause them to follow it, giving people one of the few ways to feel like they are genuinely interacting with their sea monkeys.

      Placing the tank in a well-lit window or otherwise exposing the whole tank to light all at once will naturally have a wider, less-focused effect. With no one focal point to attract the monkeys, they become more frenzied and swim all around the tank, performing quick loops and other amusing motions.

    Avoid Overexposure

    • There are limits to how much light sea monkeys should be exposed to. When using direct, natural light it is particularly important keep a close eye on time. Prolonged exposure can prove dangerous, as it will overheat the tank and its contents.

    Special Products

    • While many are content to use either natural light or basic artificial lights, some companies have created tanks specially designed to maximize light's effects on sea monkeys. Tanks treated with phosphorescent materials designed to safely glow for hours after exposure to light have entered the market, creating extended periods of sea monkey activity with minimal real light.