Taking care of Sea Monkeys, also known as brine shrimp (Artemia salina), involves providing them with a stable and suitable environment, proper feeding, and adequate oxygenation. These tiny aquatic creatures are fascinating pets that thrive with minimal but consistent attention.
Setting Up Their Home Environment
The foundation of good Sea Monkey care begins with their habitat.
1. The Tank and Water
- Tank Choice: Sea Monkeys typically come with a small plastic tank, but any clean, clear container can work. Ensure it's never been used with soap or detergents, as residues can be lethal.
- Water Preparation: This is perhaps the most critical step.
- Start with distilled water or purified bottled water. Tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that are harmful to Sea Monkeys.
- Add the "Water Purifier" or "Water Conditioner" packet first. This packet contains salts and other compounds to create the perfect saline environment and remove any residual harmful elements. Allow it to dissolve completely before adding the eggs.
- Wait at least 24 hours, or as instructed by your kit, before adding the "Live Eggs" packet. This ensures the water chemistry is stable.
2. Optimal Tank Placement
Location plays a key role in maintaining a consistent and healthy environment for your Sea Monkeys. Place their tank on a windowsill that doesn't receive any direct sunlight. This ensures the tank still gets plenty of natural light, which is beneficial for their development and encourages beneficial algae growth, without causing rapid and potentially harmful temperature fluctuations. Direct sunlight can quickly overheat the water, leading to stress or death.
3. Temperature Control
Sea Monkeys prefer a stable water temperature between 68°F and 78°F (20°C and 26°C). Avoid placing the tank near air conditioning vents, heaters, or in areas with dramatic temperature swings. A consistent temperature supports healthy growth and reproduction.
Feeding Your Sea Monkeys
Feeding is straightforward, but overfeeding is a common mistake that can lead to problems.
1. When to Start Feeding
Do not feed your Sea Monkeys immediately after hatching. They are born with a yolk sac that provides initial nourishment. Typically, you should wait about 5-7 days after the eggs have hatched before their first feeding.
2. How Much and How Often
- Amount: Use the small feeding spoon provided with your kit, or just the tip of a clean toothpick, to add a tiny amount of food. A good rule of thumb is to add just enough food that the water appears slightly cloudy, but not murky.
- Frequency: Feed them every 2-3 days. Observe the water clarity: if the water is still cloudy from the previous feeding, wait until it clears up before adding more food. Clear water indicates they've consumed the previous meal.
- Overfeeding: This is the most common cause of Sea Monkey death. Excess food decomposes, consuming oxygen and promoting harmful bacterial growth.
Oxygenation (Aeration)
Sea Monkeys need oxygen to survive. In their small tanks, aeration is crucial.
- Gentle Aeration: You can oxygenate the water by gently stirring it with a clean spoon or a dedicated aerator pump (if you have a larger setup).
- Frequency: Aerate the water for a minute or two daily, or at least every other day, especially if you see them congregating at the surface, which can be a sign of low oxygen.
Maintaining Water Quality
Good water quality is essential for the long-term health of your Sea Monkey colony.
- Evaporation: As water evaporates, the salt content in the tank increases because salt does not evaporate with the water. When the water level drops significantly, replenish it with distilled water only. Never add tap water or more salt.
- Cleaning: Avoid cleaning the tank with soap. If the tank gets excessively dirty with algae or debris, you can gently siphon out some of the water and replace it with fresh, pre-conditioned distilled water. Some algae is beneficial as it provides a natural food source and oxygen.
- Water Changes: Full water changes are rarely needed and can be stressful. Focus on topping up evaporated water and maintaining proper feeding.
Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No Hatching | Wrong water, too cold, old eggs | Ensure correct water treatment and temperature; wait a few more days. |
| Sudden Deaths | Overfeeding, low oxygen, temperature shock | Reduce feeding, aerate daily, ensure stable temperature. |
| Cloudy Water | Overfeeding, bacterial bloom | Stop feeding until water clears; increase aeration. |
| Sea Monkeys at Surface | Low oxygen levels | Increase aeration frequency and duration. |
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a thriving and active Sea Monkey colony that provides endless entertainment.
