BIPHASIC PARTICULATE MEDIA FOR THE CULTURE OF FILTER-FEEDERS

Abstract

The composition and preparation of 3 artificial media which allowed over 200 aseptic parthenogenetic generations of the freshwater Cladocera Moina macrocopa are described in detail. These media have liquid and particulate phases. The liquid phase supplies minerals, water-soluble vitamins, nucleic acids and a liver extract; the particles (2-30 .mu.m) supply the bulk nutrients: coagulated proteins and starch and lipid factors. Since uptake of particulates is very efficient in filter-feeders, biphasic media may be useful for growing other filters feeders and for identifying their nutritional requirements.