Are Brine Shrimp Genetically Modified?
Due to the controversy surrounding these sorts of practices, it is very logical that you might start to wonder if brine shrimp ar genetically modified.
Are they Genetically Modified?
A regular brine shrimp is not genetically modified. However, when you see a Sea Monkey, you are looking at a brine shrimp that has been genetically modified. The official Sea Monkey website states that, "Finally, after years of crossbreeding, we developed a hybrid. These amazing hew hybrids grow larger and live longer than any 'natural' variety of brine shrimp."
Therefore, you have information straight from the source proving that Sea Monkeys most certainly are genetically modified brine shrimp.
About Sea Monkeys
Sea Monkeys appeared on the scene in 1960, and they became popular at least partially because of their life span. Their eggs last for a long time, and when you order sea monkeys, you are actually receiving a packet of eggs. Once you get them, you release them into the tank of water, where they will live for approximately two years. However, once they are big enough, they will start to have babies. Therefore, your tank will continue to renew itself, so you need to be aware that you are making a commitment when you purchase sea monkeys.
Other Modifications
Brine shrimp have been genetically modified for commercial salt production. They were also chosen to go into space, where the effects of ultraviolet radiation were tested on them. According to the Rhode Island Sea Grant Fact Sheet, these creatures have also been subjected to a variety of different studies, including those involving:
- Genetics
- Toxicology
- Radio biology
- Biochemistry
- Ecology
- Molecular biology
Whether for home entertainment as Sea Monkeys or for commercial or research use, the brine shrimp used are often genetically modified.