About Us
Reef Cultures was founded by Matt Nelson, a dedicated reef hobbyist driven by discipline, precision, and a deep respect for the biology that sustains thriving reef ecosystems. What began as a personal effort to improve the health and stability of his own aquarium systems gradually evolved into a mission to provide fellow reef keepers with dependable, high-quality live cultures they could trust.
From the very beginning, Reef Cultures has been guided by a simple principle: grow live phytoplankton and copepods the right way. That commitment meant developing controlled cultivation systems, refining lighting schedules, carefully measuring nutrient dosing, stabilizing salinity and temperature, and implementing responsible harvest practices. The early days involved continuous testing, adjustments, and restarts, all with one goal in mind — consistency. As methods improved and results became repeatable, it became clear that the process we had built could serve more than just our own tanks.
Today, Reef Cultures remains firmly committed to quality over quantity. We focus on producing fresh, dense, and biologically active cultures through controlled, small-batch systems designed to prioritize stability and reliability. Healthy reef aquariums are built on living micro-ecosystems, and we take seriously our role in supporting that biological foundation. Every culture we grow reflects careful attention to detail, clean cultivation practices, and respect for the living organisms we produce.
We are proud to be a military-friendly company that supports Active Duty Service Members, Veterans, Reservists, National Guard members, and Military Families. The values that guide Reef Cultures — discipline, integrity, structure, and accountability — align closely with the military community. We understand the importance of reliability and consistency, especially for those balancing demanding schedules and responsibilities. Reef keeping can offer calm, focus, and a sense of steady control, and we are honored to support that experience.
Our mission is to provide reef hobbyists with dependable, high-quality live cultures that strengthen the biological backbone of their aquariums. We believe reef keeping builds patience, encourages responsibility, and rewards consistency. These principles shape not only the ecosystems we help sustain but also the way we conduct our business.
As Reef Cultures looks toward the future, we remain committed to responsible growth and continual improvement. Our vision includes expanding our cultivation capabilities, developing enhanced blends and systems, and providing educational resources that empower hobbyists to better understand and support their reef environments. Above all, we intend to remain grounded in the values that started this journey — integrity, precision, and a genuine passion for reef biology.
Reef Cultures was founded with purpose and continues to operate with intention. We are committed to growing stronger reefs through disciplined practices, consistent quality, and unwavering respect for the living systems that make this hobby extraordinary.