Tetraselmis chui

Tetraselmis chui is a species of marine green microalgae belonging to the family Chlorodendraceae. It is widely recognized in the global aquaculture industry as a high-quality nutritional source for various aquatic organisms, particularly at their larval stages.

Originally found in tropical and subtropical marine environments, Tetraselmis chui has been domesticated for industrial production. It is cultivated in various settings, ranging from large open ponds to sophisticated, high-tech closed photobioreactors that ensure biomass purity and consistency.

Botanically, the organism is a motile, unicellular flagellate. It is characterized by its distinct green color due to the presence of chlorophyll, and its ability to store energy efficiently makes it a preferred candidate for large-scale production. The cell size is ideal for ingestion by a variety of commercially significant shellfish and shrimp larvae.

Cultivation requirements involve maintaining stable environmental parameters. The culture thrives in saline waters with salinity levels between 25 and 35 ppt. Essential agricultural practices include proper light supplementation, aeration for gas exchange, and the addition of nutrient-rich media, such as the f/2 formulation, to support logarithmic growth phases.

The primary economic use of Tetraselmis chui lies in the hatcheries sector. It serves as a foundational feed, providing essential fatty acids, amino acids, and pigments that are crucial for the development and survival of juvenile aquatic stock. Preventing contamination by protozoa or other invasive algae species is the main challenge for farmers in this field.

• Superior nutritional profile including PUFAs.
• Robust growth rates under controlled light and temperature.
• Ease of harvesting due to cell density.
• Versatility in both hatcheries and nursery systems.