Holding/QT Tank Setup Advice

[jonboyb]

Just picked up a 26 gallon AGA and Fluval 205 canister filter to use as a holding tank for fish/inverts as I break 2 cubes down to transfer to the 93. I don't expect anything to spend longer than a week or 2 in this tank as I prep the big tank and liverock, but I will likely continue to use it as a QT and starfish tank for my harlequin shrimp. I'll throw one of my spare HOB skimmers on too.

My question is will a single cheap PH like a MJ-900 or MJ-1200 be plenty of additional turnover with the 180 gph Fluval canister?

Also, how would you guys stack the Fluval baskets (3). I was planning on using the standard pre-filter sponges then carbon in the bottom basket, SeaChem Matrix (or equivalent) or LR rubble in the middle basket, and then LR rubble in the top basket. I'll throw 15 lbs or so LR in the tank too.

 

[tokejr]

Hey Jon,

I grabbed this from Imagine Ocean for my 10 gallon breeder tank and it works perfectly.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18381">http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18381</a>

Provide adjustable flow and filtration you can remove/add as you are medicating, etc. I add a sponge filter for bio and the tank is perfect for QT or as a breeder.

 

[jonboyb]

I'll stick with the Fluval, just trying to determine my media choices.

 

[tokejr]

jonboyb;391645 wrote: I'll stick with the Fluval, just trying to determine my media choices.

Sponge and floss is the best for keeping the water clean, and the sponge gives you some added benefit of a small bacterial colony. You also want to have activated carbon on hand, though not necessarily in the filter to remove meds if you have to administer them.

I use bare bottom for easy cleaning (and catching) and PVC pipes for hiding places in the tank 3/4 to 1 inch corners seems to keep most fish happy. No rock, nor sand because you will kill bacteria if you administer meds - and experience an ammonia spike when it dies off.

 

[jonboyb]

For the time being it is purely a holding tank. If I ever have to use it for QT or a hospital tank all bets are off and the LR, filter, skimmer, etc would be removed and I'd just do lots of small PWC's instead of relying on skimming and filtration.

 

[notireef]

I would think as long the the water is aerated well and you do water changes you should be fine......maybe add a little cheato along with the LR rubble in the filter basket.