copopods I don't have many
 

I was wondering how could one get more(pods) I have been told to make sure tank has lots before getting something like a manderin fish.

Pod piles.

What I did was make boxes using egg-crating, filled with CC then placed the LR on top. For me it allowed the LR to sit up higher and still have support and since the fish couldn't get in, the pods were having a great time. Assuming that since there numbers definitely increased. Probably a bit a trap for debris but it works.

Basically give them a chance to multiple without predation (your refug) and the numbers build and they'll spread out.

What did you use to glue the egg crate together :question:

Did you use zap straps?

Used zip-ties.

You could ask some of the local reefers for a bit of sand or macro algae containing some of the critters you need. It would definatly increase the amount of them in your tank in a shorter period of time.

Fr WWM
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/copepodfaqs.htm