Tigriopus Californicus Reef Copepods
- Regular Price
- $25.00
- Sale Price
- $25.00
- Regular Price
- $28.00
- Unit Price
- per
Tigriopus californicus Copepods – “Big Red Copepod”
Our Tigriopus californicus copepods—known to many reef hobbyists as the “Big Red Copepod,” “Tig,” or “Tiger Copepod”—are a vibrant, nutrient-dense live food for reef aquariums. These bright red copepods are loaded with astaxanthin—a natural pigment and antioxidant that restores faded fish colors to their vivid, wild brilliance. Their larger size (250–1500 microns) and jerky, stop-and-go swim pattern make the Big Red Copepod irresistible to even the pickiest marine fish.
Package Details
- Size: 8 oz
- Order: Harpacticoida
- Habitat: Benthic (bottom-dwelling)
- Life Stages: Eggs, nauplii, copepodites, and egg-bearing females
- Cultured: 100% aquacultured in sterile conditions
Why Choose the Big Red Copepod for Your Reef Tank?
- Rich in highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) and beneficial n-3 fatty acids
- High astaxanthin content supports vibrant coloration in marine fish
- Short gestation period—females can produce up to 300 offspring
- Stimulating swim pattern triggers a strong feeding response
- Feeds on detritus, helping maintain a clean and balanced aquarium
Perfect For
- Clownfish and Anthias
- Seahorses & Pipefish
- Wrasses and Dragonets
- Picky or hard-to-feed marine fish
How the Big Red Copepod Benefits Your Reef
Unlike smaller copepod species, the Big Red Copepod offers exceptional nutrition and visible enrichment. Its larger size makes it easy prey for fish, while constant movement stimulates hunting behavior. This not only boosts fish activity but also ensures they receive a diet rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Whether you call them Tigriopus, Tig, Tiger Copepods or Big Red, they’re a powerhouse food source your reef will thrive on.
Feeding and Care
Introduce directly into your display tank or refugium. The Big Red Copepod will establish in live rock and substrate, creating a sustainable live food source while helping control detritus. For best results, pair with live phytoplankton to support continuous reproduction and peak nutritional value.
Boost your reef’s color, health, and biodiversity—add live Big Red Copepods to your tank today.
How long will it take to ship my order?
Your order will be shipped within 3-8 business days.
How much does it cost?
We offer free trackable shipping on select items.
Shipping rates for partner brand items and international orders may vary and will be calculated at checkout.
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How long does shipping take?
USA: 3-8 business days
CA, AUS, UK, and Europe: 5-21 business days
Rest of world: 5-25 business days
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