Live Munnid Isopods - Reef Genetics

Munnid Isopods (Munna sp.) occupy a useful niche in the reef aquarium microbiome that neither copepods nor amphipods fully fill. At 1–2mm maximum size, they are large enough to be pursued by micro-predatory fish but small enough to navigate the fine structure of live rock and substrate. Their constant grazing on biofilms, detritus, uneaten food, diatoms, and cyanobacteria makes them active contributors to nutrient recycling and surface cleanliness throughout the tank.

For fish-focused reef keepers, Munnid Isopods represent a practical live food option for species that are difficult to wean onto prepared diets. Mandarins, pipefish, and anthias — all fish with high metabolic demands and a preference for moving prey — will hunt these isopods naturally throughout the rockwork. Supplementing with a reproducing population of Munnids reduces dependence on daily copepod dosing while offering a more varied and naturalistic diet.

Once introduced to an established reef, Munnid Isopods will reproduce and maintain a population without additional intervention, provided the system supports adequate microfauna habitat. Macroalgae growth — whether in a refugium or display — is the most effective way to sustain colony density over time, giving the isopods shelter, grazing surface, and breeding habitat. Each culture from Reef Genetics ships with 24–30 individuals, giving the colony a healthy starting number for most reef systems.