These methods are presented here after strict and repetitive testing at Argent. Please note that parameters like temperature, time, pH, salinity, light, density, and counting accuracy are most important to the successful outcome of these tests. Follow these methods as closely as possible. It is important that the incubation container be conical in shape and be graduated so that volume can be determined. A glass tank is preferred as it allows light to penetrate the hatching medium.
Water pump to adequately circulate the water in the water bath surrounding the cones.
Fluorescent light, or equivalent to provide 1000 lux and light in the 400-600 nm spectral range. Air pump, tubing, valves. Ring stands, or other method to support the cones in the water bath that does not interfere with light transmission. Balance or scale, with sensitivity of at least .01 g. 10 ml Pipette. Dissecting microscope, magnification 30 - 40x to count hatched nauplii.