TMC Hatchery

Culture Operation

Our culture operation consists of 3 phases:

Phase 1: Broodstock Environment

All of our spawning pairs are kept in perfect breeding condition, by simulating environmental parameters that are as close to their natural habitat as is practically possible. They are fed a varied diet of Gamma Frozen Foods, in addition to our own pelleted blend of vitamins and minerals, formulated on site and individually tailored to meet the specific requirements of each separate species.

Phase 2: Larval Development

Clownfish fry spend their first few weeks of life as pelagic larvae. This is a delicate and nutritionally demanding time for these rapidly developing animals. It is crucial for both their well being and survival that high quality foods are administered. Our feeding regime consists of using mixtures of highly enriched live foods, each species of clownfish having its own particular blend. Weaning the fry onto well balanced artificial diets increases survival and enhances pigmentation.

The young fish are kept in this environment until they have gone through a stage of development known as metamorphosis. At this point the larvae become miniature clown fish and are ready to be moved into grow-out.

Phase 3: Grow Out

This is the final phase of the fishes' life in the hatchery spending a minimum of ten weeks in large "grow-out" aquariums. Here they are fed a mixture of feeds, including a full range of the Gamma products, and dry pelleted diets. Fish are constantly graded for growth and are ready to leave the hatchery only when they have reached a minimum size of 3.5cm, and are fully accustomed to a wide range of aquarium foods.

Saleable fish are taken into the arrivals room at the main TMC fish house, acclimated then put on display for our retail customers. Many of our tank raised fish are marketed and exported to more than 27 countries.

It is our policy to produce fish of the highest quality. For this reason the TMC hatchery is working with just a few species at this time with continuous effort put into improving vigour and pigmentation.