A live bacterial culture to enrich the reef aquarium microbiome
In a marine aquarium, bacteria play an essential role in the reef’s biological function. They naturally colonise rocks, filtration media and the surfaces of marine organisms, where they form complex microbiological communities.
BEA Microbiome Cairns has been designed to promote this biodiversity by providing mainly aerobic live microorganisms, suited to well-oxygenated surfaces and areas with good water circulation. Its formula is inspired by bacterial communities naturally found in reef environments.
Regular use helps maintain a diverse microbiome and promote the colonisation of available biological surfaces. It is particularly suitable for aquariums using dead or artificial rocks, or ceramic media requiring gradual maturation.
Promote biofilms and the natural transformation of organic matter
Biofilms are thin layers of microorganisms found on rocks, corals and filtration media. They contribute to various biological processes, including the transformation of organic matter from leftover food, algae residues and the natural activity of animals.
BEA Microbiome Cairns supports the development of functional aerobic biofilms through bacterial groups associated with the cycles of organic carbon and sulphur. These communities contribute to the transformation of polysaccharides, biological residues and other complex organic substances.
This culture acts primarily on exposed, oxygenated surfaces: live rock, coral skeletons, biomedia and illuminated areas. It is not intended for the deeper layers of sand, which host different microbiological communities.
A solution for maturing dead rock and maintaining the reef biologically
BEA Microbiome Cairns can be used during the advanced maturation of a new aquarium, particularly when it is set up with dead rock or biological media that have not yet been extensively colonised. It helps gradually enrich available surfaces with suitable bacterial communities.
The product is also useful after a period of microbiological depletion, for example following intensive use of UV or ozone, or after major work on the aquascape and biological media.
Its primary use, however, remains the regular maintenance of the reef microbiome. Periodic additions help support the diversity of bacterial communities in mature aquariums.
For complementary action, BEA Microbiome Cairns can be used together with BEA Microbiome Lagoon. Cairns primarily targets the reef’s oxygenated surfaces, while Lagoon supports the microbiological communities of sandy bottoms and low-circulation substrates.
Dosage and use of BEA Microbiome Cairns 100 ml
Before each use, shake the sachet vigorously to resuspend the live bacteria and mineral particles.
The recommended dosages are as follows:
- Start-up and advanced maturation: 50 ml per 100 litres, generally 1 to 2 weeks after starting the aquarium or once nitrification is active.
- Microbiological reseeding: 50 ml per 100 litres after biological depletion or to support the colonisation of dead rock.
- Regular maintenance: 20 ml per 100 litres every 15 to 30 days.
Pour the preparation directly into a well-circulated area of the aquarium to promote its distribution over the rocks, corals and biological media.
Leave the circulation and return pumps running, but temporarily switch off the protein skimmer, UV and ozone for approximately 30 minutes. In aquariums without a protein skimmer, start with half the dose.
Slight temporary cloudiness may appear after dosing. The protein skimmer may also produce more foam for a short time after being switched back on. These effects are generally normal.
Composition and storage of BEA Microbiome Cairns
BEA Microbiome Cairns is supplied in a 100 ml sachet containing a live bacterial culture, microbiological biomass and a mineral support. Its milky white to light grey appearance, the presence of fine particles and a slight earthy or sulphurous odour are consistent with the nature of the product.
The sachet must be stored closed, in a cool place at a stable temperature, away from heat and direct light. Shake carefully before each use to homogenise the culture.
Product intended for marine aquariums only. Do not ingest and keep out of reach of children.
