How to Culture Pavlova: A Premium Feed for Marine Life

Pavlova lutheri (also known as Monodus subterraneus) is a golden-brown microalga prized in aquaculture for its rich profile of DHA, EPA, and sterols. It’s a premium feed for bivalves, larval fish, copepods, and rotifers, and is especially valued for broodstock conditioning and early-stage development.

What You’ll Need

• Pavlova starter culture

• F/2 or Walne's fertilizer

• Saltwater (1.018–1.022 SG)

• Bright, full-spectrum light (6,500–10,000K)

• Air pump + rigid airline tubing

• Sterile culturing container (glass or HDPE)

• Optional: gentle stirring plate (helps prevent sticking)

Culturing Instructions

1. Prepare Culture Medium
Mix RO/DI water with reef-grade salt to 1.020 SG. Add nutrients (F/2 or Walne’s). Ensure temperature is stable (18–24°C is ideal).

2. Inoculate
Add the Pavlova starter to your prepared medium. Swirl gently to distribute cells evenly.

3. Aerate
Use soft aeration with a rigid airline. Pavlova is delicate—too much turbulence can shear the cells.

4. Light Schedule
Provide 14–16 hours of full-spectrum light daily. Avoid overheating—Pavlova prefers cool, consistent temperatures.

5. Monitor
Culture should turn from pale to golden-brown in 5–8 days. Healthy cultures have a clean marine scent.

6. Harvest
Harvest with a fine mesh or by gentle decanting. Keep refrigerated and use quickly. Always keep a backup culture going in case of crashes.

Best Practices

• Avoid vigorous bubbling—use soft, fine aeration.

• Pavlova is sticky; regular swirling or gentle mixing prevents wall buildup.

• Sterilize all equipment and containers between uses to avoid contamination.

Why Culture Pavlova?

• High DHA & EPA: Superior to many other microalgae

• Sterol-rich: Supports membrane development in larvae

• Essential for bivalves & larvae: Increases survival and growth

• Ideal for enrichment: Boosts nutritional value of live feeds

Pavlova may be finicky compared to green algaes, but its nutritional value makes it worth the effort—especially when you’re aiming for optimal larval survival and long-term reef health.