QT Questions

[rdnelson]

I am sure this has been discussed numerous times but I hope you don't mind my asking again.

I understand the bennifits of a QT tank and have been wanting to start using one. The thing I have struggled with is how do you get it rolling without having to go through the cycle process? I just don't have the space to keep one going at all times and would need to be able to set it up when needed and tear it down when not needed. I understand a small HOB filter will work just fine but how do you keep the BB alive on the biowheel.

Will the BB be maintained if you just put the biowheel in the sump until you need it? If so, will putting a brand new bio wheel in the sump seed the BB or would you need to first set up the QT, let it cycle then move the biowheel into the sump?

As always, your help is very much appreciated.

Rich

 

[misu]

Something like that, I use a small bag of seachem matrix that's "seasoned" in the sump when the quarantine tank is offline. I just trash it if I have to treat the quarantine.

 

[grouper therapy]

misu;715837 wrote: Something like that, I use a small bag of seachem matrix that's "seasoned" in the sump when the quarantine tank is offline. I just trash it if I have to treat the quarantine.

Good idea! No big money if you do have to toss it.

 

[rdnelson]

So you use that instead of a HOB? I am not farmilliar with it. Guess I better check it out huh? LOL

Edit: Ok, after looking it up I think I understand. If it is put in the sump in a bag, BB will populate it. Then when the QT needs to be set up it can be put in the QT. I would just need something in the QT like a power head to give some flow. As long as I don't treat anything, it can be put back in the sump after the QT is finished. But, if I did have to treat something, I would toss it so the treatment doesn't get into my display tank. Is that it in a nut shell?

 

[rtirado]

Yes, sort of. You can usually put that matrix in a HoB filter to get the water running through it.

 

[misu]

yep you got it

 

[cr500_af]

I do the same sort of thing, but with LR from the sump. If I have to treat, it gets replaced with a new dry piece so it will be ready next time.

 

[jennm]

Richard, read my article

 

[rdnelson]

Great article Jenn. But that sparks a few more questions. LOL

1. I assume, starting with a fresh batch of water would be preferable to water removed from water changes correct? I know that if you are doing a water change because of poor water quality it is a no brainer but, I do water changes once a week even through my tests show very good water conditions. Assuming all test are good, would using removed water be a good option?
2. Seems I like "Jumpers". Therefore, I would assume I need a good top for the QT. Is off gassing an issue here? Since it is a QT and looks are not a big issue, would a piece of acrylic with a ton of holes drilled in it be adequate?
3. You don't mention a power head in your article. Am I safe in assume that since we are talking fish and not corals flow isn't a big deal as long as you get good flow over the BB?

Again, thanks to all of you for putting up with all my questions which I am sure you have heard about 10,000 times.

 

[jennm]

1) Pretty much. Keep in mind that if you're setting up a quarantine suddenly because of a parasite outbreak, using display tank water might bring over parasites in their free swimming stage, so I don't recommend that. If you're doing it, 'just because' then display water is fine providing parameters are good.

2) Eggcrate. Plastic light diffuser from HD/Lowes - in the lighting section. Cut to make a grid top - or whatever works but allow it to ventilate.

3) Correct. As long as there's sufficient flow to agitate/aerate the water, you're good with fish. Keep in mind also that some treatments may affect pH and dissolved oxygen so if that's the case, a powerhead would be a benefit.

You're welcome It's what I do!

Jenn