Raise the Best Live Food for Fry and Adult Fish

Baby brine shrimp (BBS) are a high-protein, live food source that stimulates natural hunting behavior and enhances growth.

What You Need:

Brine shrimp eggs (Artemia cysts)

Hatchery container (upside-down 2L bottle, brine shrimp cone, or DIY)

Aquarium salt (non-iodized)

Dechlorinated water

Air pump and airline tubing

Optional: light source and heater

Step-by-Step Hatch:

1. Mix salt water: 1 tablespoon per liter (specific gravity ~1.018–1.020)

2. Add to hatchery and start vigorous aeration

3. Add 1/4–1/2 teaspoon of brine shrimp eggs

4. Keep temp between 78–82°F

5. Provide a constant light source (optional but increases hatch rate)

 

Hatching Time:

24–36 hours depending on temp and egg quality

Harvesting:

1. Stop airflow and wait 5–10 minutes

2. Shrimp sink, empty shells float

3. Use a pipette or airline to siphon from bottom center

4. Rinse BBS in fresh water before feeding

 

Tips:

Feed immediately after hatching for highest nutritional value

Rinse thoroughly to avoid adding salt to your freshwater tank

Hatch new batches daily for constant supply