Quarantine Setup (1 Viewer)

[DaAznGuy]

Would like some help setting up a Quarantine tank. Have done a lot of reading, but would like to get everyone's input/experiences. I am going leave it bare, just a pump, heater, some large PVC plumbing for hiding places. One of the main questions is, should the quarantine tank be cycled? and how long do you usually quarantine for? treat with any meds?

Thanks,

Long

 

[ometh]

I usually just take some tank water and throw it into the quarantine. I always clean it out after a quarantine espeically after using meds.

 

[steveb]

So are you talking QT or hospital tank? I am asking because sometimes people are confused about the purpose.

When I think QT I am thinking long term observation (15-30 days) which may or may not have substrate/macro algae etc... things to help keep the fish calm. No medications then yes I would want an active biological filter going.

A hospital tank (bare bottom, pvc pipe, etc.) where I am dumping in medications with the fish in place for 7-10 days I would manage with water changes and an ammonia badge.

 

[inigomontoya]

Usually people break the QT down when not in use, especially if you use it with meds. If you are sure your tank water is clean that helps, you can also use ammonia removers if not using medication (prime, amquel). However- NEVER use those with copper/cupramine it becomes toxic and will kill your fish.
You can also try adding Seachem Stability or other cycle quick starter.

 

[DaAznGuy]

Planning to use it to observe new fish. If the need for treatment came up, then I wanted it ready for meds. Of course I would break it down after use and cleaned up before next use.

 

[RR-MAN]

A ten or twenty gallon tank does not make a good QT tank in my opinion. I know people buying a 3" tang and stick it in a 10/g tank. I don't think even a 40/g breeder is a decent QT set up for large fish such as tangs/angels, probably ok for smaller fish.

I do not believe in medicating any fish. In the last 15 years had only one incident with velvet which is not that bad statistically speaking.

Here's how I quarantine:

-First, I observe the fish at the LFS to make sure it's active before bringing it home, also observe tank mates to make sure no sign of ich or any other issues.

-Remember some LFS keep their salinity very low (around 1.015-1.019) to keep the fish parasite free so acclimate fish for at least an hour minimum.

-My QT is very different (not really a QT but works for me). I have a 50/g lightless refugium with few pieces of LR under the stand which is connected to the main tank. I keep the fish in their for at least two weeks. I have a small led fixture I turn on in the evening to feed the fish. Basically fish stays in isolation for few weeks before going in the main tank. I have done that with all my angel fish and so far no issues.

-Based on my experience, ICH is caused 99% of the time due to fish being stressed; improper handling. I don't need scientific proof to know that.

 

[DaAznGuy]

Thanks for your input everyone.