Frequently Asked Questions

1. Lifespan
   Bioluminescent algae live for approximately 1 month. To extend the lifespan of your algae, purchase additional growth medium. Bioluminescent organisms can live indefinitely if provided with new growth medium.


2. Additional Growth Media for Algae
   To use, gently shake an existing culture of algae, dispose of 75% by volume, and replenish to original volume with new medium. Repeat this process every 1 to 2 months, or when bioluminescence begins to fade for 2 to 3 consecutive nights.


3. Bioluminescence Index
   The intensity of bioluminescence is scored on a scale of 0 to 5. A value of 5 signifies potent bioluminescence, and a score of 0 signifies no visible bioluminescence. Scores of 1 and 2 require the eye to be dark acclimated to observe bioluminescence. Scores of 3 and above do not require dark acclimation of the eye to observe bioluminescence. The Bioluminescence Index for each specimen can be found under the Additional Information tab of the product page.


4. Order Dispatch and Delivery Times
   Orders are dispatched for shipment within one to two business days. If an order containing living specimens is placed late in the week, it will be shipped the following week to avoid weekend delays. International-bound shipments are dispatched on Mondays to ensure timely delivery. Shipment times are subject to product availability, and customers seeking bulk quantities of algae should contact Empco prior to placing an order to confirm delivery commitment times. Express shipping implies diminished transit time for living specimens, and does not accelerate shipment dispatch time. Please email Empco in advance if your order is urgent or time sensitive and we will confirm with you a delivery commitment date.


5. Shipments to Cold Climates
   Living organisms will survive shipment to wintry destinations if delivered via express mail. Please be available to receive the package on the delivery date. All express shipments are guaranteed to arrive alive. Express shipping can be selected during checkout.


6. Shipments to Hot Climates
   Living organisms will survive shipment to warm destinations if delivered via express mail. If temperatures exceed 70 °F/21 °C in the delivery destination, express shipping must be purchased. Please be available to receive the package on the delivery date. All express shipments are guaranteed to arrive alive. Express shipping can be selected during checkout.


7. Shipping Quotes
   To receive a shipping quote, add desired products to your shopping cart and enter your postal details on the shopping cart page.


8. International Shipping Quotes
   International shipments are possible to most destinations. Empco uses only express shipment services for international orders containing living specimens. To receive a quote, add desired products to your shopping cart and enter your postal details on the shopping cart page. One or more shipment methods will appear if express service is possible to your destination. Shipping quotes are specified by their respective courier.