Micro Worm Culture Setup & Maintenance Guide
Live Fish Food Protocol – Lane Aquatics
Micro worms (Panagrellus redivivus) are one of the easiest and most reliable live foods for raising fry. They are small, slow-moving, and perfect for guppies, bettas, angelfish fry, and other small freshwater fish.
This guide outlines the exact Lane Aquatics culture method for consistent production.
Materials Needed
Plastic culture container with lid (vented)
Instant mashed potatoes (base food)
Active dry yeast
Water
Micro worm starter culture
Spoon or mixing tool
Small collection tool (cotton swab or plastic scraper)
Step 1: Prepare Culture Substrate
Add a thin layer of instant mashed potatoes to the bottom of the container.
Add enough water to create a thick paste consistency (not watery).
Mix thoroughly.
✔ Goal: Moist, thick substrate (like peanut butter texture)
Step 2: Add Yeast
Lightly sprinkle a small pinch of yeast over the surface.
Do not overuse yeast—too much can cause crashes.
Step 3: Add Micro Worm Starter Culture
Spread starter culture evenly over the substrate surface.
Close container (Make sure the lid is vented).
Step 4: Culture Conditions
Keep at room temperature (70–80°F ideal)
Avoid direct sunlight
Ensure slight airflow (prevents anaerobic buildup)
✔ Culture should begin producing worms in 24–48 hours
Step 5: Harvesting Micro Worms
After 2–4 days, worms will climb the container walls.
Use a cotton swab, finger, or plastic scraper to collect worms.
Rinse into aquarium or feeding container.
✔ Harvest daily for best productivity
Step 6: Maintenance & Renewal
Cultures peak in 7–14 days
Replace culture every 2–3 weeks
Start new cultures before old ones crash
Quick Reference
Parameter Value Culture potato paste Temperature 70–80°F First Harvest 24–48 hours Peak Production 7–14 days Culture Life 2–3 weeks
Important Notes
Make sure you have a hole in the lid with some cotton in the hole, this will keep out pest.
Avoid excess moisture (prevents sour crashes)
Start multiple cultures for continuous production
Always keep a backup starter culture
About This System
This micro worm culture protocol is used at Lane Aquatics (Texas-based breeder) to produce continuous live food for fry development. It supports early growth stages in guppies, angelfish, plecos, and other freshwater species. You can get your culture from Lane Aquatics.com