Sirindhornae Copepods – The Rare Thai Tigriopus for Marine Aquariums and Aquaculture

Introduction to Sirindhornae Copepods

Live copepods are the foundation of marine aquarium nutrition, coral vitality, and aquaculture success. Among all copepod species available to reef keepers and hatcheries, Sirindhornae Copepods (Tigriopus sirindhornae) stand out as one of the rarest and most valuable. Endemic to Thailand and Smithsonian-vouchered, this species combines exclusivity with superior nutritional benefits for both corals and fish larvae.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything about Sirindhornae Copepods — from their biology and unique features to their role in reef aquariums and aquaculture. By the end, you’ll see why hobbyists, researchers, and professional hatcheries seek out this rare copepod species.

What Are Sirindhornae Copepods?

Tigriopus sirindhornae is a harpacticoid copepod species discovered and scientifically described in Thailand. Unlike common copepods such as Tisbe biminiensis or Apocyclops panamensis, Sirindhornae is geographically restricted, making it a premium option for those looking to enrich their reef tanks or aquaculture systems.

Taxonomy

• Phylum: Arthropoda

• Class: Maxillopoda

• Subclass: Copepoda

• Order: Harpacticoida

• Genus: Tigriopus

• Species: Tigriopus sirindhornae

Defining Features

• Smithsonian-verified species description.

• Endemic to Thailand — not farmed anywhere else.

• Larger body size compared to Tisbe or Apocyclops.

• Extremely high in essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA.

• Hardy, tolerating salinity and temperature fluctuations.

Why Are Sirindhornae Copepods Special?

1. Rare and Exclusive

Sirindhornae Copepods are not found in typical local fish stores. They are only available from specialized aquaculture farms in Thailand, making them one of the most exclusive live copepod species in the reef aquarium trade.

2. Smithsonian-Vouchered Species

This copepod has been officially recorded and vouchered by the Smithsonian Institution, giving it credibility and value not only for aquaculture but also for research and conservation efforts.

3. Superior Nutritional Profile

Sirindhornae Copepods are naturally enriched with:

• DHA & EPA (HUFAs) – critical for larval fish development and survival.

• Proteins & amino acids – support coral feeding and growth.

• Carotenoids – enhance reef fish coloration and coral pigmentation.

4. Culture Resilience

They thrive in a wide salinity range (20–40 ppt) and can tolerate temperatures from 22–30°C, making them adaptable to different marine systems.

The Role of Sirindhornae Copepods in Reef Aquariums

Coral Feeding

Corals such as Acropora, Montipora, Euphyllia, and Goniopora readily consume Sirindhornae copepods. Their large size and swimming patterns make them highly attractive prey for coral polyps, which helps improve coral extension, coloration, and growth rates.

Fish Larval Nutrition

Fish larvae, especially mandarin dragonets, anthias, clownfish, and wrasses, need highly nutritious food during their earliest life stages. The HUFA-rich profile of Sirindhornae Copepods ensures better survival and development compared to standard rotifers or less nutritious copepods.

Tank Biodiversity and Balance

Like other harpacticoids, Sirindhornae graze on microalgae, detritus, and film algae. This makes them an effective clean-up crew in reef tanks, contributing to water quality, nitrate control, and micro-ecosystem balance.

Sirindhornae Copepods vs. Other Copepod Species

Tisbe biminiensis

• Size: Small

• Behavior: Substrate dwelling, hides in sand and rocks

• Best Use: Nano tanks, small coral feeding, mandarins

Apocyclops panamensis

• Size: Medium

• Behavior: Both planktonic and benthic

• Best Use: Coral fry, fish larvae

Tigriopus californicus

• Size: Large and hardy

• Behavior: Strong swimmer

• Best Use: High-energy food for fish like anthias and wrasses

Tigriopus sirindhornae (Sirindhornae Copepods)

• Size: Larger harpacticoid, exclusive to Thailand

• Behavior: Visible grazer, benthic and water-column presence

• Best Use: Premium coral feeding, fish larvae rearing, biodiversity enhancement

Culturing Sirindhornae Copepods

Optimal Culture Conditions

• Salinity: 25–35 ppt

• Temperature: 24–28°C optimal

• Lighting: Low-moderate for phytoplankton support

• Aeration: Gentle bubbling to keep oxygen stable

Feeding

• Nannochloropsis, Isochrysis, and Tetraselmis phytoplankton are excellent food sources.

• Supplement with detritus or algal paste if phytoplankton is unavailable.

Harvesting

• Use mesh sieves between 53–120 µm.

• Stagger cultures for continuous production.

• Avoid over-harvesting to maintain colony health.

Applications in Aquaculture

Ornamental Fish Breeding

Sirindhornae copepods are particularly effective in the breeding of clownfish, gobies, dragonets, and angelfish, where larval survival rates increase dramatically when fed copepods instead of only rotifers or Artemia.

Commercial Hatcheries

They provide the nutritional density necessary for mass-produced marine larvae, improving growth rates and reducing deformities.

Marine Conservation and Research

Because they are Smithsonian-verified and endemic, Sirindhornae copepods are valuable for scientific studies, larval rearing trials, and ecological biodiversity research.

How to Buy Sirindhornae Copepods

Sirindhornae Copepods are not yet a mainstream product. They can be purchased from:

• Specialized live copepod distributors who ship internationally.

• Premium reef nutrition providers such as PodDrop, which partner with sustainable producers.

When purchasing:

• Look for Guaranteed Live Arrival.

• Ensure they are sustainably cultured, not wild-caught.

• Confirm proper shipping methods (insulated boxes, cold packs, fast delivery).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are Sirindhornae Copepods so rare?

They are endemic to Thailand and only farmed in limited aquaculture facilities.

Q2: Can they survive in a home reef tank?

Yes, they thrive in refugiums, live rock, and sand beds.

Q3: Are they suitable for mandarins and picky reef fish?

Yes, their size and nutrition make them an excellent food source.

Q4: How are they shipped internationally?

Typically in insulated packaging with cold packs, ensuring live arrival.

Q5: Can hobbyists culture them?

Yes, with phytoplankton feeding and stable salinity, home cultures are achievable.

Conclusion: The Future of Sirindhornae Copepods

Sirindhornae Copepods (Tigriopus sirindhornae) are more than just another copepod species — they are a premium, scientifically recognized, and nutritionally superior option for aquaculture and reef aquariums. Their rarity, Smithsonian-verified taxonomy, and exceptional fatty acid profile make them a gold standard in live reef nutrition.

Whether you’re a reef hobbyist feeding corals, a breeder raising delicate larvae, or a researcher studying marine biodiversity, Sirindhornae Copepods are the ultimate live feed solution.