In a series of feeding experiments using the newly established the first laboratory strain of a temperate photosynthetic ciliate, Mesodinium rubrum MR-MAL01, direct evidence was obtained for ingestion of the cultured M. rubrum cells by the bivalves like the Korean scallop, Chlamys farreri and Manila clam. Ruditapes phil-ippinarum. Each experimental Korean scallop and Manila clam removed up to 9,590 and 23,200 cells min-1, respectively. Small particles almost identical to the ruptured cells of MR-MAL01 culture were observed in the gut of the experimental bivalves, although no intact M. rubrum cell was found. In a 28 days rearing experiment, Isoshrysis galbana (KMCC H-2), a microalga, supported better growth of small Manila clam spat (0.46 mm in shell length) than MR-MAL01 strain. For the large Manila clam spat (0.84 mm in shell length), however. MR-MAL01 strain was a better prey item. Mass culture methods for this photosynthetic marine ciliate may be developed for use as live feed in aquaculture of the spat and broodstock of bivalve and small-mouthed fish larvae.