How to tell that a phyto culture is mature?

[chanbi]

AT, need your advise here. How can i tell? U was telling me something about the "saachi stick"? What is that? Is it sold at Florida farm as well? I have been sticking to the 7 days recommendation but so far can't really tell the colour different b/w a 4-5 days vs 7 days culture??

[Achilles Tang]

Hi Chanbi,

Sorry... misspelled... it's Secchi stick.

Here's the description from the FAF site:

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MICROALGAE DENSITY MEASURER

Simple device allows you to estimate microalgae cell densities. Based on the Secchi principle. White dot mounted on a calibrated plastic stick is lowered down into a well lighted microalgae culture until the dot disappears. Depth is recorded off the scale and approximate cell density is obtained from chart provided. Chart provides density conversions on Nannochloropsis, Chlorella, Isochrysis, Tetraselmis, Pyramimonas, and Nannochloris. Manufactured by Florida Aqua Farms Inc. Can be easily calibrated to suit your specific microalgae and conditions.

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The thing is: without the Culture Manual and the Secchi stick, you won't be able to guesstimate the cell density before you feed your tank.

Over time, you will be able to guess the density of your culture just by judging the colour of your culture.

I have been able to get to about 2.5 on the Secchi scale.. which is about.. urr... I can't remember... but it's pretty dense (considering that I don't use CO2 to culture).

AT

[chanbi]

Thanks AT.. Will try to get it the next time if someone in this forum ever order from Florida Farm!