Provide broader microalgae diversity with PodDrop VITAL-5, a live phytoplankton blend containing five complementary marine microalgae species. Each species contributes different cell sizes, physical characteristics, and culture profiles, creating a versatile blend for compatible reef inhabitants and live-food culture programs.

VITAL-5 is designed for mixed reef feeding, copepod and other live-feed cultures, filter-feeding organisms, and aquarists seeking greater phytoplankton variety than a single-species culture can provide.

Five-Species Blend

VITAL-5 includes live cultures identified as:

• Nannochloropsis oculata
• Tetraselmis chui
• Isochrysis galbana
• Chaetoceros calcitrans
• Phaeodactylum tricornutum

Exact cell counts and species ratios are not guaranteed.

Key Benefits

• Contains five live marine microalgae species
• Provides a wider range of cell characteristics
• Suitable for compatible mixed reef-feeding programs
• May support compatible copepod and live-food cultures
• Offers greater microalgae diversity than a single-species culture
• Suitable for compatible filter-feeding organisms
• Available in two convenient sizes
• Cultured at PodDrop’s licensed Arizona aquaculture facility

Best For

• Mixed reef feeding
• Compatible filter-feeding invertebrates
• Copepod culture feeding
• Rotifer and other live-feed programs
• Reef aquariums requiring broader phytoplankton variety
• Hobbyist and professional marine culture systems

Available Sizes

• 16 fl oz
• 32 fl oz

Directions for Use

1. Bring the shipment indoors promptly after delivery.
2. Inspect the sealed culture before opening or using it.
3. Gently mix the container as directed on the label. Do not shake violently.
4. Dose conservatively into an area with suitable water flow or use it to feed a compatible live-food culture.
5. Match the blend’s cell profiles with the feeding requirements of the intended organisms.
6. Monitor aquarium nutrients, oxygen levels, and water clarity after dosing.
7. Adjust future feeding according to aquarium response and water testing.

Always follow the current product label for exact dosing, handling, and storage instructions.

Storage and Handling

Store exactly as directed on the product label. Protect the culture from excessive heat, freezing temperatures, and direct sunlight. Gently mix it at the recommended intervals and use clean, dedicated equipment to prevent contamination.

Use by the date printed on the bottle. Do not rely on bottle color alone to determine cell density, nutritional value, or culture condition.

Important Notice

This product contains living microalgae, so color and visual density may naturally vary. The five species are not guaranteed to be present in equal ratios or fixed concentrations.

The biochemical and nutritional composition of live phytoplankton varies according to strain, culture conditions, growth phase, light, temperature, harvest timing, and storage. VITAL-5 is intended as supplemental live feed or culture material. It is not a complete food or treatment for coral stress, disease, nuisance algae, dinoflagellates, or water-quality problems.

Live Shipping Information

This product requires expedited, temperature-controlled shipping.

• $30 flat-rate live and refrigerated shipping
• Live cultures typically ship Monday through Wednesday
• Shipping may be delayed during unsafe weather or carrier conditions
• Someone should be available for the carrier’s first delivery attempt
• Live and perishable products cannot be returned after shipment

Delivery concerns must be reported within two hours of the carrier’s recorded delivery. Keep the culture and all original packaging and provide clear photographs or video of the culture, shipping box, insulation, shipping label, and any visible damage.

Why Buy From Infinity and Beyond Aquatics?

Infinity and Beyond Aquatics works with trusted aquarium suppliers to provide fresh, professionally cultured live foods for marine aquariums. We carefully coordinate live-product fulfillment to minimize unnecessary delays and help your culture arrive safely.

Not sure whether VITAL-5 or a single-species phytoplankton culture is right for your aquarium? Contact us before ordering and we’ll help you select the best option for your system and feeding goals.