offminded

Hey All,

I am planninng on using a 10 gallon quarantine tank for use with my 55 gallon FOWLR. I was wondering if this tank stands alone or does is utilize water from the bigger tank? I assume because I will be treating sick fish that the water should have nothing to do with the bigger tank? Also, the quarantine tank should be maintained daily as opposed to setting it up when I get new fish or when one gets sick? Do these questions make sense? Thanks!!

Dino

The quarantime tank needs to be seperate from your other tanks.
In the best of situations, you should also have nets and other equipment that are only used with the quarantine tank.

You should keep the quaranteen tank up and running.
That way, you do not have to cycle it each time you get new fish.

offminded

that makes sense...where is the best place to put it? if i have enough room can i put it under my tank inside the stand? what do you recommend? also, the quarantine tank would have the bare essentials in terms of filtration, air stone, heater, and light...right?

Dino

Place it anywhere that is convenient.

Yes, a Q tank will need those items.

offminded

sounds easy enough...

agsansoo

Second opinion: A quarantine tank should only be use as needed. Running one 24/7 would need live stock in the tank at all times also, to keep the biological filter active. Not mention the added cost of electricity. Maintaining a biological filter (small sponge filter) in the main display or sump is another option. Then it can be ready when a emergency arises. Setting up a quarantine tank would not take long. Water from display tank, sponge filter, heater and a small powerhead and maybe some pvc pipes for the fish to hide. I also recommend a Seachem Ammonia Alert badge too ! Lighting is up to you.

offminded

I like the idea of having the quarantine tank on hand and ready in case something happens. I can just keep an empty 10 gallon tank and fill it up with water from the main when the need arises. I also like the idea of running the sponge filter in my sump...great idea...thanks!

agsansoo

The sponge filter doesn't have to be running, just place the sponge part in the sump. The flow of water through the sump will breed beneficial bacteria.