OC-K — Microbe Nutrient Growth Fuel | BTA
OC-K — Microbe Nutrient Growth Fuel | BTA
OC-K
Microbe Nutrient Growth Fuel. 100% organic, alcohol-free bacterial nutrition formulated to feed Archaea through Nitrospira — with metalloenzymes, nucleotides, and trace elements. No boom-and-bust cycles.
We refined OC-K specifically to grow our own bacterial biomass, so we know it works. That's why we made it — because nothing else really cuts the mustard as far as we're concerned.
And it's all organically derived. The core components that make up OC-K come from naturally digested marine biomass — exactly what bacteria are naturally acclimatised to eat. We just refine it, add some secret herbs and spices, simmer on low for 47 minutes and 27.3 seconds EXACTLY, and bottle it for your convenience!
A Better Food for Microorganisms
OC-K was developed as a readily available biological nutrient matrix for aquatic life — not simply as a source of free organic carbon. Every part of the formulation is designed to make that nutrition useful, stable, and biologically productive throughout the system.
Naturally Available Nutrition
First, we wanted a naturally available source of nutrients: organic, aquatic-based nutrition that fits the biology of an established aquatic system.
Easy to Digest and Stable
Second, the nutrients needed to be presented in an easy-to-digest, stable form so microorganisms can access them consistently rather than receiving a short-lived surge.
No Alcohol or Sugar
Third, OC-K contains no alcohol and no sugar. Its organic matrix provides a more considered nutrient source than simply adding a rapidly available carbon feed.
Microbes Work for the Carbon
Most importantly, the organic carbon is bound within the OC-K matrix. Microorganisms must hydrolyse and break down the matrix to access it, helping moderate its release into the system. As they do that work, they also produce metabolites, enzymes, and other useful biological products along the way.
More Than Organic Carbon
Many organic carbon supplements are designed primarily to add a rapidly available carbon source. OC-K takes a broader approach: it is a unique, seven-ingredient biological nutrient formulation with enzymatic cofactors and metabolic support compounds selected to promote optimal microbial growth.
Seven-Ingredient Formulation
OC-K combines seven complementary organic ingredients into one readily available nutrient matrix. The result is a broader food source for microorganisms than a single-source carbon supplement.
Enzymatic Cofactors
The formulation includes enzymatic cofactors that support the biological pathways microorganisms use as they process the organic matrix and build new biomass.
Metabolic Growth Support
OC-K supplies metabolic support for optimal microbial growth, including the nutritional components microorganisms need while accessing and transforming the matrix.
Designed for the Whole System
Because OC-K supports microbial activity rather than simply adding free carbon, it is designed to benefit the wider aquatic environment — from biofilters and substrates to plants, waste-processing communities and filter-feeding organisms.
Formulated Bacterial Nutrition
OC-K is a refined organic matrix delivering sustained microbial nutrition with bioavailable trace elements, nucleotides, and amino donors.
Metalloenzyme Core
Proprietary trace element and vitamin matrix keeps biological pathways active. Includes Fe, Zn, Mo, Mn, Cu, B, Si, Se, Co in highly bioavailable forms.
Stable 24-Hour Fueling
Alcohol-free organic carbon donors provide sustained energy release. No rapid spikes followed by crashes — steady microbial growth over 24 hours.
Maximum Uptake
Provides raw nucleotides and universal amino donors directly to bacteria. Bypasses synthesis steps for faster biomass building.
Per mL Concentration
Complete breakdown of the OC-K formula per millilitre of solution.
| Component | Concentration per mL |
|---|---|
| Organic Carbon (Alcohol-Free) | ~115.0 mg |
| Potassium (K) | 15.85 mg |
| Nitrogen (N) | 14.30 mg |
| Sodium (Na) | ~3.00 mg |
| Sulphur (S) | 2.16 mg |
| Phosphorus (P) | 1.45 mg |
| Calcium (Ca) | 0.90 mg |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 0.50 mg |
| Trace Elements | Fe, Zn, Mo, Mn, Cu, B, Si, Se, Co |
| Vitamins & Nucleotides | High-Density Bioavailable Matrix |
Application & Use Rates
Detailed use-rate guidelines for standard use, new users, biofilm management, and advanced users.
| Application | Use Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 0.5–1.5 mL per 100L daily | Add into high-flow area with aeration |
| New Users | 0.25 mL per 100L daily | First week, gradually increase |
| Biofilm Bloom | White stringy biofilms visible | Reduce use rate by 60–80% until bloom subsides, then slowly increase to safer level |
| Advanced Users | Increase slowly | Increase by max 0.25 mL per day per 100L. Monitor dissolved oxygen, filtration, protein skimmer performance and water quality |
| Over-Correction | Reduce use rate immediately | Stop adding until biofilms clear. A water change and extra aeration may be required. Resume at 40% of previous rate |
Available: 500ml | 1000ml
System Compatibility
OC-K works across both saltwater and freshwater systems with specific guidelines for each environment.
Saltwater (Marine / Reef)
Fully compatible with active protein skimming. OC-K's alcohol-free formula won't cause the violent skimmer foaming seen with vodka or other carbon sources. Ideal for reef tanks, marine systems, and aquaculture RAS.
Freshwater
Compatible while maturing biofilters. Can be used regularly as long as active uptake/removal of bacteria is removed. Advanced users: manage bacterial export via mechanical filtration or protein skimming on freshwater systems.
Nitroplex & Microplex
Yes, they are complementary. OC-K fuels the bacteria in Nitroplex (nitrogen-reducing microbial consortium) and Microplex (beneficial bacteria blend). For pond-side culturing of Nitroplex, OC-K serves as the dedicated nutrient fuel. View Nitroplex →
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which microbial nutrition products your system needs? Our technical team can review your system parameters and recommend the right fuelling strategy.
Trade & Wholesale
Running a hatchery, aquaculture farm, or aquarium retail operation? We offer competitive trade accounts with bulk pricing, dedicated technical support, and custom mixing & OEM formulation services for production-scale needs.
