PyroDino Troubleshooting & Care: Your Top Questions Answered

Caring for your PyroDinos (Pyrocystis fusiformis) is easy and rewarding—but we know you may have a few questions along the way. Below are some of the most common customer questions we receive, along with simple, clear answers and tips to keep your PyroDinos glowing.

Why aren't my PyroDinos glowing?

There are a few possible reasons:

• Too much light during the day or not enough darkness at night—Dinos need a regular light-dark cycle.

• They may be adjusting after shipping. Give them 3–5 days to bounce back from a long or stressful shipping jouney.

• They're are in a stressful environment—keep them in room temperatures of 59–78°F (18–24°C) and avoid severe temperature swing.

• They need nighttime stimulation—gently swirl or tap your container in a completely dark room to see the glow.

What is the best light schedule for my PyroDinos?

PyroDinos thrive with a consistent light / dark cycle. We suggest using regulated natural light or a white LED lamp on a timer to simulate day and night cycles. No direct sunlight or any intense light that can heat the container. 

Example: 10/14 cycle
Light ON: 7 AM – 5 PM
Light OFF: 5 PM – 7 AM

This is just an example. You may use other cycles like 14/10, 12/12 or 8/16. The goal is to make it as consistent as possible.  

There’s brown stuff in my Bio-Orb—what is it?

The brown stuff is good, these are the actual PyroDinos, which appear brown during the daytime cycle. 

• Gently swirl the container to dislodge it.

• Keep out of direct sunlight.

• Limit nutrient feeding to once every 1–2 weeks.

How often should I feed my PyroDinos?

Feed PyroDinos with DinoNutrients every 1 to 2 weeks when they show signs of growth. Signs of growth can be seen during the daytime by a thin line of aggregation at the waterline. This video will help explain:

Can I refrigerate PyroDinos if I leave town?

No. PyroDinos are live plankton and should never be refrigerated. If you’re traveling:

• Store them in a well lit room that is relatively dark at night

• Keep the temperature mild  (65–75°F).

• PyroDinos can survive for several weeks without being fed DinoNutrients - so feeding should not be a concern.

They arrived but aren’t glowing—are they dead?

Not necessarily! Dinos often arrive stressed from shipping. Let them rest in their pouch under proper light-dark cycles for a few days. Daily swirls are helpful. If there's no glow during nighttime hours after 5 days, contact us—we’re here to help.